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.

the courtroom turned

ahead," said

flicked to Serena, who sat trembling, her head bowed "but because my daughter, Serena, insisted her father rush home for

her, my husband would still be

I believe she has no right

was crowded, most of

shocked murmur rippled through the

the judge was taken aback; he hadn't expected such a

true?" he asked

remained silent, head down,

"I'm not fighting for these antiques because of their value. It's because I believe her hands are

husband's blood. She

allowed to

trembling grew more

broke out among

if it wasn't for Serena, her

stand Serena. Every time she looks at her daughter, she must be reminded of her late husband-the man her own child got killed. If

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

judge regarded Penelope with a troubled