Chapter 6 β The Cameras Outside
Red and blue lights flashed across the stone walls of Ashcroft Manor as news vans rolled through the front gates one after another.
Someone had leaked the story.
Within minutes, local reporters were setting up cameras outside the entrance, broadcasting live about an alleged assault involving one of the city's most recognizable socialites.
Inside the ballroom, Vanessa stared through the windows in horror.
"No..." she whispered. "This can't be happening."
Her attorney, Martin Ellis, rushed through the doors, briefcase in hand.
"Vanessa," he said quietly, pulling her aside. "Don't answer any more questions. From this moment on, you speak only through me."
She grabbed his arm.
"Fix this."
Martin looked toward the giant screen where the security footage remained paused.
His face tightened.
"I can't erase evidence."
Vanessa's confidence cracked.
"My father will handle it."
Before Martin could respond, Detective Foster approached with another officer.
"Miss Carlisle, we'd like to ask you a few formal questions."
"My lawyer will answer."
"That's your right," Foster replied. "But I also need to inform you that we've obtained copies of the surveillance footage and witness statements."
Martin exhaled slowly.
He knew what that meant.
This case was no longer built on conflicting stories.
It was built on evidence.
Across the room, Richard Whitmore walked to Emma.
"You acted without hesitation," he said.
Emma lowered her eyes.
"I only did what anyone should have done."
Richard shook his head.
"No."
He glanced around the silent ballroom.
"Most people watched."
The words landed heavily.
Guests who had stood frozen moments earlier suddenly found the floor far more interesting than meeting anyone's eyes.
Richard continued, "Courage isn't measured by power or wealth. It's measured by the willingness to act when everyone else refuses."
Emma felt tears sting her eyes, but she quickly blinked them away.
She hadn't expected praise.
She had only expected to lose her job.
Instead, the owner of the estate extended his hand.
"I believe someone with your character deserves a better future."
Before Emma could respond, Detective Foster returned.
He looked directly at Vanessa.
"Miss Carlisle..."
"You are under arrest on suspicion of felony assault and making a false report."
The handcuffs clicked shut.
Outside, dozens of camera shutters fired at once.
May you like
For the first time in her life, Vanessa Carlisle couldn't hide behind her family's name.
The entire city was watching.
