Chapter 13 - The Trap is Sprung
The main studio of Global News Live in New York was charged with electrifying tension.
Preston, Evelyn, and Julian sat on the left side of the grand stage, looking like a picture of tragic, aggrieved working-class victims. Preston had intentionally unbuttoned his collar to look stressed; Evelyn wore a simple black dress to convey mourning and frailty.
On the right side sat Lena Hartwell. She wore a striking scarlet tailored dress, her posture erect, her presence commanding the entire studio without saying a word.
The veteran news anchor, Richard Sterling, cleared his throat, addressing the camera. "Welcome back to this exclusive live special. Tonight, we face the bitter dispute between tech titan Lena Hartwell and her former family, who accuse her of corporate theft, emotional cruelty, and parental alienation. Mr. Hale, you have two minutes."
Preston leaned toward his microphone, his voice trembling with practiced emotion. "Thank you, Richard. All I want is justice. Lena took advantage of my trust during a vulnerable moment in my life. She orchestrated a legal coup, stole my family's patents, wiped out my life savings, and stripped me of my rights as a father to Maya and Lily. She left my mother in financial ruin while she lives in luxury."
Evelyn sobbed quietly into a handkerchief on cue.
"Miss Hartwell," the anchor turned to Lena. "How do you respond to these severe allegations?"
Lena slowly looked at the camera, then turned her gaze toward Preston.
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"I don't respond with words, Richard," Lena said calmly. "I respond with evidence."
She pressed a button on the small tablet resting on her lap.
