Chapter 12
Two weeks passed, bringing the onset of autumn and crisp, cool winds that swept through the streets of New York.
Victoria's formal bail hearing took place in a packed federal courtroom, drawing international media attention.
Dressed in a plain grey jumpsuit, stripped of her makeup and expensive jewelry, Victoria looked completely unrecognizable.
Clara sat in the front row of the gallery, her pink maternity dress a subtle, deliberate reminder of the night on the stairs.
The judge listened to the prosecutor's presentation of the video evidence before slamming her gavel down with thunderous authority.
"Bail is denied. The defendant will remain in custody pending trial," the judge ruled without hesitation.
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As Victoria was led out by court officers, she turned to look at Clara one last time.
Clara simply tilted her head, offering the exact same victorious smirk she had given her from the bottom of the stairs.
