Chapter 10 - VANESSA’S DEFENSE CHANGES
Vanessa’s original story:
Michael fell.
Then:
Self-defense.
Then:
She struck once.
Evidence suggested multiple impacts.
Medical experts identified at least two distinct blunt-force injuries likely caused by the paperweight or similar object.
She changed again.
Michael had grabbed the document packet.
They struggled.
She swung reflexively.
Could panic explain multiple blows?
A jury might decide.
But then came the part that destroyed most of her credibility.
Michael’s phone.
It had been under the workbench.
Audio recording active.
He had started it before Vanessa arrived because he expected an argument about the forensic report.
The final minutes included:
MICHAEL:
I’m giving this to my lawyer tomorrow.
VANESSA:
You’re destroying Noah’s family.
MICHAEL:
You did that when you forged Dad’s name.
VANESSA:
Give me the report.
MICHAEL:
Leave.
Then a metallic scrape.
Michael:
Put it down.
Vanessa:
You think you can take everything from me?
Impact.
Michael grunts.
Second impact.
Then Noah screaming.
May you like
No ambiguity about at least two blows.
The attack had not been an accidental fall.
