Illegal transfers.
Forged emails.
Copied signatures.
One proof after another.
Silence, absolute and crushing.
The judge turned off the screen.
“Anything to add, Ms. Grant? Mr. Salinger?”
Salinger was sweating.
“This—this doesn’t prove anything—”
“On the contrary,” the judge said. “It proves attempted fraud, falsification of evidence, and malicious harm against Mr. Carter.”
The gavel struck.
“Mr. Ethan Carter is fully cleared of all allegations.”
Ethan felt time stop.
“Additionally, this court orders a criminal investigation into the plaintiffs and their legal representation.”
Paula began to cry.
Salinger tried to move, but two deputies were already at the door.
The judge continued:
“The defendant is awarded back pay, damages, and full restitution.”
The gavel struck once more.
“Court is adjourned.”
Ethan remained seated, frozen.
Like his body couldn’t understand that it was over.
That he’d won.
Brooks patted him on the shoulder.
“Kid… you just got your life back.”
People filed out.
Ethan gathered his things, still dizzy.
In the hallway, he heard a voice.
“Mr. Carter.”
He turned.
It was the judge.
Now without the robe—just a simple, professional suit, her expression more human.
She walked closer.