Chapter 7 - The Trial Preparation
The courthouse in downtown Manhattan was a fortress. Barricades held back thousands of true-crime fanatics, news anchors, and protestors.
Victoria Sterling’s defense team had a new strategy. They couldn't deny the kidnapping—the physical evidence was insurmountable. So, they aimed for diminished capacity. They were going to argue that an obsession with Julian had triggered a psychotic break, making her incapable of understanding right from wrong.
"They're going to try to put you on trial, Clara," Julian warned her as they rode in the bulletproof SUV toward the courthouse on the first day. "They are going to ask you humiliating questions. They are going to try to make you look weak."
Clara wore a stunning, tailored white suit. Her hair, once matted and dull, was glossy and perfectly styled. She looked like a queen going to war.
"Let them try," Clara said, squeezing his hand.
When they walked into the courtroom, the silence was deafening. Victoria sat at the defense table, wearing a drab gray dress, trying to look small and pitiful.
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But when Clara walked down the aisle, her chin held high, Victoria’s facade cracked. A flash of pure, venomous hatred crossed Victoria’s face. Clara didn't flinch. She stared right back at her abuser, a small, victorious smile playing on her lips.
The game was over. Now, it was time for the execution.
