Chapter 82

• Richard's POV
• The courtroom was packed, the air heavy with tension. I could see everyone’s eyes on me, but I kept my gaze fixed forward. My heart pounded in my chest, but I forced myself to remain calm. This was it—the moment that could make or break everything.
• Steve’s wife, Margaret, took the stand. Her eyes were red-rimmed, but there was a fire in them, a determination that made me feel a flicker of hope. The judge nodded for her to begin, and the room fell into an uneasy silence.