Chapter 6
The morning sun cast long shadows across the federal courthouse steps in downtown Washington, D.C. National news networks broadcasted live footage of the high-profile arraignment as media vans clogged the surrounding streets.
Ethan walked up the granite steps, flanked by federal marshals and carrying a secure briefcase of medical records. He wore a sharp dark suit today, his expression carved from stone as camera flashes blinded his path.
Inside the courtroom, Judge Miller presided over the packed gallery with an austere, unforgiving demeanor. Eleanor Vance was led through the side doors in chains, looking pale, defeated, and stripped of all her former arrogance.
"Mrs. Vance, you stand charged with attempted first-degree murder, child abuse, and conspiracy," Judge Miller read aloud. Eleanor’s court-appointed defense attorney stood up to object, stammering through a weak request for psychiatric evaluation.
Prosecutor Harrison stepped forward, slamming a certified transcript of the USB audio recording onto the podium. "Your Honor, the audio evidence proves premeditation and malicious intent without a shadow of a doubt," Harrison argued forcefully.
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Judge Miller reviewed the transcript for five agonizing seconds before denying the defense motion with a sharp gavel strike. "No bail granted; the defendant will remain in maximum-security federal custody pending trial," Judge Miller ruled.
Gasps rippled through the courtroom gallery as Eleanor was led away in handcuffs toward the holding cells. Ethan watched her leave without a single flicker of emotion on his face, cold and completely resolute.
