The courtroom fell into a hushed silence.

The air grew thick with tension.

Elise Scott and Samantha took their designated seats.

William Levine visibly swallowed when his eyes met Elise's.

Victoria Stuart stood beside him, her gaze turning icy cold.

She had known about William assisting Elise with her defense.

But her sources confirmed he had made little progress.

Victoria doubted anyone could overturn this case in two weeks.

Once Elise was convicted, the Levine family would ensure William never saw her again.

And once Elise was behind bars... Victoria had plans.

So many unfortunate accidents could happen in prison.

While Victoria schemed, the court reporter recited the procedural rules.

"All rise."

The bailiff's voice echoed through the chamber.

Judge Harrison entered, his black robes flowing behind him.

Everyone stood in respect, then settled as the judge took his seat.

The trial commenced with formal declarations.

Victor Morgan, the lead prosecutor, stepped forward.

"Your Honor." His voice carried authority. "On November third, our office received an anonymous tip regarding the defendant, Elise Scott, owner of Stellar Group."

He paused, letting the weight of his words sink in.

"The tip alleged bribery exceeding one point one million dollars."

He continued. "And tax evasion on unreported revenue over seventy million."

Victor gestured with precision. "The informant provided substantial evidence. Photographs of the defendant with the bribed official. Unfiled revenue documents from Stellar Group."

He detailed the timeline. "On November fourth, prosecutors detained the defendant at our offices. Standard procedure was followed. She was transferred to detention by noon."

The evidence was overwhelming.

"The prosecution requests approval to proceed with formal charges."

Judge Harrison nodded gravely.

"Permission granted. The prosecution may present witnesses and evidence."

Victor bowed slightly. "Thank you, Your Honor."

He handed a thick envelope to the bailiff, who delivered it to the judge.

Then Victor made his next move. "Your Honor, the prosecution calls Xander Collins to the stand."

"Witness approved."

Xander was escorted into the courtroom.

His identity had been carefully concealed before the trial.

The prosecution wanted no chance for Elise to prepare.

Xander appeared to be in his forties, with a prominent belly.

His suit and tie gave him the look of a government official.

He seemed nervous on the stand.

Victor approached him calmly. "There's no need to be nervous, Mr. Collins. Just answer truthfully."

Xander nodded, wiping his brow. "Thank you."

Victor's demeanor shifted to serious. "State your name and occupation for the record."

"My name is Xander Collins. I'm a clerk at the tax bureau."

Victor proceeded. "What prompted you to report Henry Carter's involvement in bribery?"

"I acted in the name of justice." Xander's voice strengthened. "Henry Carter held a position of public trust. As deputy commissioner, his involvement in bribery was unacceptable."

"How did you discover his illegal activities? How did you obtain evidence?"

"I noticed Mr. Carter frequently dining with Elise Scott." Xander explained. "During one such occasion, I overheard their private conversation. Initially skeptical, I decided to investigate."

He continued. "I personally audited Stellar Group's revenue reports. Major discrepancies became apparent. Then I discreetly examined Mr. Carter's financial records. I discovered a deposit of over seven hundred thousand dollars from an unknown source."

Victor nodded. "Thank you for your testimony."

He turned to the judge. "Your Honor, permission to call Henry Carter to the stand."

"Permission granted."

Henry Carter took the witness stand.

After the standard identification questions, Victor asked directly. "Mr. Carter, did you accept a seven hundred thousand dollar bribe from Elise Scott? Did you help her evade taxes on seventy million dollars of unreported revenue?"

Henry didn't hesitate. "Yes."

The admission hung heavy in the air.

Victor simply nodded. "Thank you."