Chapter 6 - THE DAWN PRESS CONFERENCE
At 7:00 AM, thick autumn fog blanketed the stone steps of the Municipal Courthouse.
Dozens of news trucks, camera crews, and reporters crowded behind security barricades. What was supposed to be a quiet corporate takeover had become the biggest media storm in the city's history.
A sleek black limousine pulled up to the curb. Julian stepped out first, dressed in an immaculate charcoal suit. He walked to the rear door, carefully unfolded Maya’s wheelchair, and lifted his daughter out with gentle, protective care.
"Mr. Sterling! Is it true she’s your illegitimate daughter?"
"Does the child really control twenty percent of Sterling Enterprises?!"
"Will you stand against your father at the board meeting?"
Microphones were thrust over the velvet ropes as cameras flashed endlessly.
Julian stood beside Maya at the center podium, placing his hand firmly over her shoulder. His voice boomed through the speakers, clear and unwavering:
"Twelve years ago, a grave injustice was committed against an innocent woman—Elena Vane. Today, her daughter, Maya Sterling-Vane, stands here not to ask for charity, but to claim what is rightfully hers under the law. We are filing an official injunction against Marcus Sterling to prevent any illegal restructuring of the family trust."
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Standing behind the courthouse glass doors, Marcus Sterling watched the broadcast on a handheld monitor. His face turned livid, his knuckles white as he leaned heavily on his cane.
"Get the press secretary on the line," Marcus hissed to his head attorney. "Tell them the child's mother was an extortionist. Destructive rumors must be put out before the 8:00 AM board vote."
