Chapter 8 - The Showdown
The judge stared down at Jessica with absolute disgust.
"Ms. Lawson," the judge's voice boomed like thunder. "In my thirty years on the bench, I have rarely seen such a depraved, malicious manipulation of the legal system."
Jessica was hyperventilating. "It's a deepfake! It's AI! He hates me, he fabricated that audio!"
"Save it for the criminal courts," the judge snapped, slamming his gavel. "The surrogacy contract is voided. Full, irrevocable legal and physical custody is awarded to the biological parents, David and Sarah Sterling. Furthermore, I am granting a permanent restraining order against Jessica Lawson."
I grabbed Sarah’s hand, pulling her into a massive, tearful embrace. We had won. The nightmare was finally over.
As we pulled apart, the FBI agents who had escorted Bradley into the room stepped forward. They pulled a pair of steel handcuffs from their belts.
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"Jessica Lawson," the lead agent said, grabbing her arm. "You are under arrest for federal wire fraud, extortion, and conspiracy to commit kidnapping. You have the right to remain silent."
Jessica screamed and thrashed as they dragged her out of the courtroom, her perfect facade completely shattered. I watched her go, feeling nothing but profound relief.
