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.

in the

ahead," said

car 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

my husband would still be

as someone indirectly responsible, I believe she has no right to inherit

crowded, most of them guests Penelope herself had

rippled through the room at

taken aback; he hadn't expected

is this true?" he asked

head down,

her voice resonating through the courtroom: "I'm not fighting for these antiques because of their value. It's because I believe her hands

blood. She

allowed to inherit those

grew

out among the

for Serena, her father would still be alive?" "She's practically

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

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

judge regarded Penelope with a