“What is the relevance of these corporate entities to a custody hearing, counselor?” Judge Vance asked, flipping through the pages.

“These entities were used to siphon over forty million dollars from the Bradford family trust,” Marcus stated.

The courtroom went entirely silent, save for the hum of the ventilation system.

“Vivian Bradford used these stolen funds to finance her personal real estate ventures,” Marcus continued.

“And more importantly, she used those funds to pay off regulatory inspectors who were investigating her husband’s former shipping docks.”

Audrey Kensington gasped softly behind Vivian.

Vivian turned and glared at her future daughter-in-law, her face darkening.

“This is slander,” Harrison said, though his voice lacked its previous strength. “These are unproven financial allegations.”

“They are fully documented bank transfers, signed and authorized by Vivian Bradford herself,” Marcus countered.

Judge Vance studied the financial flowcharts, her expression growing increasingly grim.

“Your Honor,” I said, leaning toward my microphone. “I am a mother trying to protect my sons.”

“The Bradfords are facing an imminent federal investigation into these financial irregularities.”