Chapter 42

• RICHARD's POV
• The marble floors of the courthouse echoed under my shoes as I walked towards courtroom 408, a battleground where my integrity was on trial. My lawyers, a team as polished as the briefcases they carried, surrounded me, whispering last-minute strategies and adjustments. I felt like a gladiator armed for an uncertain fight.
• "Remember, Richard, steady and calm. Let's let the facts speak for themselves," whispered Sarah, my lead attorney, her voice a soothing balm amidst the storm brewing.