“Yes, Your Honor,” Daniel said. “One that makes my continued representation of Mr. Mercer impossible.”

Grant leaned forward, his hands gripping the edge of the table.

“Daniel, don’t do this,” Grant whispered.

The judge tapped her gavel once, a sharp sound that echoed off the wood-paneled walls.

“Mr. Mercer, remain silent,” she said.

She looked back at Daniel. “Explain, Mr. Vance.”

Daniel reached into his pocket and pulled out a small black flash drive.

“Yesterday evening, my firm’s IT department completed a forensic audit of the digital signatures on the 2021 prenuptial amendment,” Daniel said.

“That is the document the defense submitted to claim ownership of the Whitaker Trust shares.”

The courtroom was completely still.

Even the rain against the window seemed to quiet.

“And what did the audit reveal?” the judge asked.

“My digital signature and notary token were applied to that document from an unauthorized IP address,” Daniel said.

“An address registered to the residence at Darrow House.”

“Specifically, from a computer logged into by Grant Mercer.”

Daniel paused, taking a slow breath.

“I did not sign that document, Your Honor.”