Chapter 8 - The Courtroom
Two weeks later, they all found themselves sitting in a sterile, brightly lit courtroom.
Arthur sat perfectly composed next to Victoria, wearing a sharp, tailored suit.
Across the aisle, Margaret and Richard looked disheveled, exhausted, and remarkably older.
They had hired a cheap, desperate lawyer who looked completely intimidated by Victoria.
The judge reviewed the petition for the permanent restraining order and the eviction enforcement.
“Your Honor, my clients are elderly and facing homelessness due to a minor family disagreement,” the defense lawyer pleaded weakly.
Victoria stood up, projecting the security footage from the party onto the courtroom monitor.
“Forcing young children into unpaid labor to be mocked by adults is not a minor disagreement, Your Honor,” Victoria countered smoothly.
The judge watched the video, his expression hardening with every passing second.
He then reviewed the police report from Richard’s violent outburst at Arthur’s corporate office.
“Mr. and Mrs. Vance, your behavior is not only entitled, it is deeply disturbing,” the judge stated sternly.
He slammed his gavel down, echoing loudly through the silent room.
“I am granting the permanent restraining order for Arthur Vance and his three minor children.”
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“Furthermore, the eviction stands, and you have exactly seven days to vacate the property.”
Margaret burst into loud, theatrical tears, but Arthur didn't even turn his head to look at her.
