Burn the Marriage, Keep the Crown

Chapter 287

Courtroom.

As the bell signaled the resumption of the trial, people filed quietly back into the courtroom.

Nestor Leighton and Bella exchanged glances, their trust in Penelope's words deepening when they saw only Giles and Gabrielle return at first.

The judge looked up. "Where are the defendants?"

Giles replied, "They've been notified. They'll be here any moment.”

A full five minutes passed before Serena and William finally made their way in.

Serena's face was drained of color, her eyes red and puffy as if she'd just been crying. Bella couldn't contain her excitement, whispering, "She must know she's going to lose the antiques. That's why she's so upset. Mom, what exactly did you do?"

Penelope offered a faint, knowing smile. "I didn't do anything. She's finally showing a conscience, that's all."

Bella started to speak again, but by then Serena had already taken her place at the defendant's table.

The trial resumed.

"Your Honor, before we proceed, I have something I'd like to say," Penelope interjected.

eye in the courtroom turned to

ahead," said the

accident. The truth is, this tragedy could have been avoided. But-" Her eyes flicked to Serena, who sat trembling, her head bowed "but because my daughter, Serena, insisted her

for her, my husband would

I believe she has no

most of them guests Penelope herself

shocked murmur rippled through

judge was taken aback;

is this true?" he

silent, head

continued, her voice resonating through the courtroom: "I'm not fighting for these antiques because of their

husband's blood.

allowed to inherit

grew more

broke out

it wasn't for Serena, her father would still be alive?" "She's practically a

can't stand Serena. Every time she looks at her daughter, she must be reminded of her late husband-the

tears, looked up at the judge and raised her voice.

Penelope with