Chapter 275

Serena's POV

The entire courtroom erupted in applause. Enthusiastic, thunderous applause. It was a recognition of Lucas's brilliance.

I couldn't help but marvel at the audacity of the Thorne family. Operating so brazenly behind the scenes-it spoke volumes about their influence. If Lucas had simply handed over the evidence directly, he wouldn't have achieved his desired outcome. Worse, the Thorne family might have found ways to silence him permanently. By making himself the target, he had successfully outmaneuvered them.

I found myself once again in awe of Lucas's foresight.

"This was undoubtedly the most effective approach you could have taken," Kennedy said deliberately, instantly bringing the atmosphere back to a razor's edge. "But Mr. Harrington, are you aware that your independent investigation violates numerous legal statutes? Many of these violations carry serious penalties under federal law."

I watched as all eyes focused on him.

Kennedy continued, "Unauthorized surveillance of private devices, public disclosure of confidential information... all of these actions could subject you to legal consequences."

"Objection," Dylan Anderson, Lucas's attorney, interjected. "My client's actions were taken solely to protect his life and safety. Everything he did constitutes legitimate self-defense and cannot be grounds for legal penalties."

Kennedy didn't belabor his point. "I'm merely offering my perspective on this incident. Whether these actions constitute criminal behavior is for the judge and jury to decide. I have no further questions."

"Would the prosecution's attorney please return to his seat. Does the defense wish to make any additional statements?" the judge asked.

"Yes, Your Honor," Dylan nodded.

"Proceed."

I watched as Dylan approached Grayson Chen and Samuel Hunt. The physical evidence was now incontrovertible, but witness testimony hadn't yet been fully established.

"Mr. Chen, Mr. Hunt," Dylan began, "you've seen all the evidence provided by my client. The criminal activities between you and Garrett Thorne are beyond dispute. Now, standing before this federal court, I urge you to be forthcoming. If you demonstrate genuine remorse and cooperation, the court may consider leniency in your sentencing."

I noticed that Chen and Hunt had gone deathly pale. They clearly recognized the futility of maintaining their lies.

Dylan's threatening tone went unchallenged by the prosecution.

He asked gravely, "Did you use my client's identity to conduct illegal market manipulation and assist criminal organizations in laundering money?"

"Yes," both men admitted.

"Is your conduct consistent with the evidence my client has presented?"

"Yes."

"Was Garrett Thorne your collaborator and the mastermind behind these operations?"

"Yes."

I saw that they no longer dared to conceal anything.

"Very well," Dylan turned to face the judge. "Based on the evidence we've presented and the suspects' own confessions, my client has committed no criminal acts. We request that the court issue a verdict of not guilty. The defense rests."

"Defense counsel may return to his seat."

Dylan sat down.

The judge stood up. "Court will recess for thirty minutes while the jury deliberates to reach a final verdict."

With that announcement, the judge and jury departed. The courtroom erupted in murmurs and conversation.

My tense heart finally began to relax. Regardless of whether Lucas had crossed legal boundaries during his investigation, any potential infractions were relatively minor. Even if convicted, the sentence wouldn't be severe.

As long as Lucas didn't face execution or life imprisonment, I felt I could accept almost any outcome.

"I knew Lucas couldn't have done anything illegal," Spencer said, unable to contain himself. "Damn, he nearly gave me a heart attack! I knew he was brilliant, but today's performance was exceptional-he completely surpassed my expectations!"

From beginning to end, the dramatic revelations and stunning truth had been breathtaking. I silently agreed.

"Lucas really is incredible," Drew acknowledged, then joked at his own expense, "If I had even a third of his talent, my parents would be over the moon. They'd probably throw a parade down Main Street."

"That's debatable," Spencer quipped. "If Lucas weren't so exceptional, would he attract so much trouble? Would so many people be targeting him? So being too accomplished isn't necessarily a good thing. People like us-born at our peak and contentedly mediocre-that's the true path to happiness."

"I give that speech a perfect score," Drew said with a thumbs up.

I noticed Maeve listening quietly beside them, laughing softly, appearing sweet and well-mannered.

"So one should live with openness and clarity, without excessive demands, learning to let go," Spencer continued casually. "That's how to find true happiness in life!"

"Yes, we should certainly learn to let things go," Drew agreed wistfully.

"Once Lucas is acquitted, we should celebrate tonight-drinks, music, the works," Spencer couldn't stay serious for more than a second.

Before Drew could respond-

"Absolutely not," I interrupted. "Lucas's health is too fragile right now. He needs to go home and recover properly. No alcohol."

Both men turned to stare at me simultaneously, making me blush.

I hadn't said anything wrong.

"We understand completely," Spencer said with a knowing smile. "Absence makes the heart grow fonder. We wouldn't dream of interrupting your reunion!"

Spencer and Drew both broke into mischievous grins. I could only lower my head, ignoring their teasing.

"When Lucas is fully recovered, he can have whatever he wants," Serena said casually, trying to deflect.

"Oh sure, once you've taken care of all his needs, he can have anything," Spencer replied with a suggestive smirk.

Serena was speechless. She realized she couldn't say anything without it being twisted.

"But seriously," Spencer continued, changing the subject, "Lucas sacrificed his entire family business just to take down the Thornes. Don't you think that's a bit excessive? Harrington International has been built over generations. How could he give it all up so easily? Doesn't he have any regrets?"

"Howard must be devastated," Drew added with a sigh.

I sat silently beside them, unable to respond.

Everything Lucas had done was, in one way or another, connected to me.

"Enough. We're in a courtroom. Keep it down," Quinn snapped, sensing my discomfort.