Chapter 6 - THE ARRAIGNMENT AT FOLEY SQUARE
Three days later, a cold autumn wind swept across Foley Square in Lower Manhattan, rustling the American flags hanging from the stone pillars of the federal courthouse. Hundreds of press members stood behind barricades, their camera lights flashing as federal vans arrived.
Julian was led out of the back of the transport vehicle, wearing an orange jumpsuit over his tall frame, his hands and feet bound by heavy steel shackles. He kept his head bowed, trying to avoid the shouting reporters thrusting microphones toward his face.
Behind him walked Victoria, her navy blue blouse replaced by a gray prison uniform, her styled hair messy and unkempt. She glared at the cameras with cold fury, refusing to display a single ounce of regret for her actions.
Inside the grand courtroom, the public gallery was packed with corporate executives, journalists, and federal investigators. Serena sat in the second row, wearing a tailored black suit with a knee brace under her trousers, flanked by Caleb and her legal team.
When Julian was led to the defense table, his eyes locked onto Serena sitting in the audience. Panic and rage flickered across his handsome features as he realized she was alive, healthy, and watching his final downfall.
"All rise," the bailiff called out as the federal judge entered the room, taking his seat behind the elevated mahogany bench.
The prosecutor stood up immediately, holding a thick stack of certified evidence documents. "Your Honor, the government moves to deny bail for both defendants on grounds of flight risk, witness intimidation, and severe danger to the community."
Julian's defense lawyer jumped to his feet, protesting loudly. "My clients are prominent business leaders with deep roots in the state of Virginia! This is a frivolous prosecution based on fabricated statements!"
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The judge held up his hand, silencing the defense counsel with a cold, severe stare. "Counselor, I have reviewed the video footage captured by the FBI undercover surveillance team. Your client threw a woman from a second-story balcony."
The judge slammed his gavel down, the sharp thud echoing through the high-ceilinged room. "Bail is denied. Defendants will remain in federal custody until trial."
