Chapter 18 - The Corrupt Judge
The briefcase contained payment ledgers protected inside a fire-resistant pouch.
One name appeared repeatedly.
Judge Malcolm Reed.
Reed had handled several Cross family corporate disputes.
He had also been assigned to review Jason’s conservatorship petition before the ballroom arrests changed the schedule.
Thomas paid him $600,000 over three years.
In exchange, Reed sealed records, approved suspicious transfers, and delayed challenges to Fairmont ownership.
The corruption reached deeper than Isabella expected.
Judge Reed was arrested at his chambers.
Every ruling involving Cross Hospitality was placed under review.
The emergency hearing moved to Judge Helena Brooks, known for strict financial oversight.
Jason appeared by video from jail.
Evelyn sat beside her attorney.
Both argued Isabella had staged the ballroom conflict and warehouse rescue to gain sympathy.
Judge Brooks listened without expression.
Then Helen played the recordings.
Evelyn discussing false psychiatric evidence.
Jason planning the foreign flight.
Thomas referring to Noah as “the child who secures everything.”
The courtroom became painfully quiet.
Judge Brooks denied the conservatorship petition.
She granted Isabella sole temporary custody.
She froze all Cross family assets.
Then she addressed Jason.
“You treated marriage, motherhood, and a child as instruments of financial control.”
Jason looked down.
Evelyn did not.
She stared at Isabella with hatred.
“This isn’t over,” she whispered.
Judge Brooks heard her.
May you like
“No, Mrs. Cross. Your criminal trial has not yet begun.”
👉 Isabella won control of her life—but Evelyn still possessed one secret capable of dividing Isabella and Margaret forever.
