Chapter 16 - The Court Date
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Four weeks later, the physical burn on Skylar’s face had healed into a tight, pink scar that ran along her jawline. She no longer wore heavy bandages, choosing instead to let the scar show. It was a mark of survival, not a badge of shame.
She walked into the Miami-Dade County family courthouse wearing a sharp, tailored navy suit. Cassandra Vance walked confidently beside her, carrying a thick leather briefcase packed with irrefutable evidence.
Today was the final hearing to make the temporary protective order permanent, and to finalize the initial asset division for the divorce.
Derek was brought into the courtroom by a bailiff. Because he had been unable to post bail following his felony arrest for violating the restraining order, he was wearing a bright orange county jail jumpsuit. His hair was greasy and unkempt, his face pale and hollowed out. The polished, arrogant salesman was completely gone, replaced by a broken, desperate inmate.
He refused to look at Skylar as he sat down next to a weary-looking public defender.
The judge, a stern woman with silver hair named Honorable Davis, banged her gavel.
"We are here for the matter of Foster v. Bennett," Judge Davis announced, looking over her reading glasses. "Counsel, I have reviewed the petition for a permanent injunction. Does the respondent have a statement?"
Derek’s public defender stood up. "Your Honor, my client maintains that the incident in question was a tragic accident. The coffee cup slipped from his hand. He denies any intent to harm Ms. Bennett, and asks that the permanent injunction be denied so they can pursue a civil divorce."
Cassandra Vance stood up, a predatory smile playing on her lips.
"Your Honor, if it pleases the court, I would like to submit Exhibit A into the permanent record. It is an audio recording captured at the exact moment of the incident."
"Objection," the public defender said weakly. "We have not authenticated this recording."
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"The metadata has been fully verified by a digital forensic expert, Your Honor," Cassandra countered effortlessly, handing a thick report to the bailiff. "It is entirely admissible."
Judge Davis nodded. "Proceed, Ms. Vance. Play the audio."
