Chapter 6: The Legal Noose
While Rebecca and Marcus plotted in the subterranean gloom of the repair shop, Julian stood in the mahogany-paneled office of his high-rise downtown headquarters, swirling a glass of amber scotch.
Across the glass desk sat Arthur Vance, a high-priced family law attorney known for his ruthless courtroom tactics and lack of moral compass.
"The emergency custody petition has been filed and stamped by Judge Holloway, Mr. Vance," the lawyer said, sliding a thick manila folder across the polished wood.
"Given your wife’s erratic behavior, documented stress episodes, and sudden disappearance from the marital home, the court will likely grant an ex parte temporary custody order for your daughter, along with a mandated medical evaluation for Mrs. Miller."
Julian stared down at the documents, a cold, predatory smirk touching the corners of his lips. "And what about the old man?"
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"Thomas Miller is a retired cop operating outside his jurisdiction," Vance replied smoothly. "If he interferes with the execution of the custody order, we can have him cited for obstruction and aiding a fugitive. By tomorrow afternoon, your domestic life will be completely cleaned up, and your public image will remain spotless."
Julian took a slow sip of his drink, his eyes fixed on the city skyline glittering through the floor-to-ceiling windows. "Good. Make sure the private investigators keep scanning every highway camera out of the city. I want her found before the weekend charity gala. I can't have any loose ends when the municipal merger is announced."
