“I have proof,” Abigail insisted, holding up the envelope with trembling hands. “Mrs. Olivia and Uncle Gregory secretly ordered a DNA test, and it says Uncle Gregory is the father.”
Chaos exploded across the courtroom as reporters shouted and attorneys stood in disbelief. Gregory tried to edge toward a side exit, but two bailiffs instinctively blocked his path.
“Order,” Judge Harper commanded, pounding the gavel repeatedly until the noise subsided. “Bring that envelope to me.”
Abigail walked carefully to the bench and handed over the document. The judge examined the laboratory report in silence, her eyes scanning each line while tension gripped the room like a tightening fist.
When she finally looked up, her expression had hardened into controlled fury. “This report from Atlantic Genetic Services confirms with ninety nine point nine percent probability that Gregory Sterling is the biological father of the fetus.”
Franklin felt as if the floor had vanished beneath him, and the betrayal cut deeper than any financial loss could. He turned slowly toward his brother, who now stood sweating and cornered, unable to speak.