Chapter 6 - The Fall of the CEO
At 4:00 PM, Judge Beckett delivered her temporary rulings pending final trial.
“Regarding child custody,” Judge Beckett declared, her voice ringing clear throughout the gallery, “this court finds that Mrs. Cassandra Rourke has been the primary emotional and physical caregiver for Nolan and Parker Rourke. Given the shocking revelations of financial deception and domestic instability introduced by Mr. Rourke, full temporary legal and physical custody is awarded immediately to Mrs. Rourke.”
Gavin slumped forward, burying his face in his hands.
“Mr. Rourke will be granted supervised visitation rights for two hours every second weekend, to take place at a court-designated facility,” Judge Beckett continued without mercy. “Furthermore, the court awards sole temporary possession of the Bethesda estate to Mrs. Rourke and the children. Mr. Rourke will vacate the property by 5:00 PM today.”
She paused, looking directly at the court reporter.
“Finally, this court orders an immediate freeze on all corporate assets of Rourke Regional Mobility and refers the evidence of offshore account transfers to the State's Attorney for criminal investigation.”
BAM!
The gavel fell.
“Court is adjourned.”
As Judge Beckett stepped down from the bench, the gallery erupted into hushed chatter. Reporters rushed toward the exit doors to file their stories.
Gavin slowly stood up. His three high-powered attorneys were already packing their bags, barely looking at him.
“Philip,” Gavin said, his voice trembling. “Where are you going? We need to file an appeal!”
“My firm’s retainer was paid via a check from Rourke Regional Mobility, Mr. Rourke,” Philip said coldly, snapping his briefcase shut. “Since those accounts are now frozen by court order, our services are suspended. Good luck.”
Philip and his associates turned and walked out of the courtroom, leaving Gavin standing alone at the defense table.
He turned toward me as I helped Nolan and Parker zip up their jackets.
“Cassandra...” Gavin whispered, his voice cracked with desperate regret. “Please... we can talk about this. We’re a family. Think about what this will do to my reputation... to the boys’ future!”
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I looked at the man I had spent thirteen years loving, supporting, and hiding behind. The illusion was completely gone.
“You didn't care about the boys’ future when you tried to leave us with nothing, Gavin,” I said softly. “You only care about your reputation now because you finally have to pay for it.”
