Chapter 11 - The Courthouse Showdown
Inside Courtroom 402, over fifty reporters packed the gallery.
Celeste sat at the petitioner’s table in a black designer suit, heavy makeup concealing her bruises, flanked by high-priced defense lawyers.
Judge Bennett banged his gavel: "This court is convened for an emergency hearing regarding the custody of Emma Sterling. Petitioner alleges the child was abducted by respondent Jonathan Sterling—"
BANG!
The double oak doors at the back of the courtroom were kicked wide open.
Jonathan walked down the center aisle, tall and commanding in a charcoal suit. Holding his right hand was little Emma, and walking proudly beside them was Elena Vance.
Behind them entered Dr. Sarah Miller, Martha the housekeeper, and federal agents carrying Department of Justice badges.
"Mr. Sterling!" Judge Bennett bellowed. "You are under an active pickup order!"
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Special Agent Miller stepped forward, flashing his federal credentials: "United States Department of Justice. These proceedings are now under federal jurisdiction pursuant to Title 18, U.S. Code, Section 1201—Federal Kidnapping. Stand down."
Judge Bennett’s face paled. "Mr. Sterling... you have five minutes."
