The marble courthouse loomed above Qiao Manor's lakeside villa like an iceberg—massive, unyielding, its pillars carved with the scales of justice. Zora Su and Sebastian Qiao stood at the courthouse steps before dawn, flanked by their small legal team. A chill breeze ruffled Zora's shawl; she drew it tighter, cradling their son's hand.
Inside, the grand atrium echoed with murmurs as shareholders, journalists, and protesters gathered. Cameras swiveled toward the Qiao family as they passed under the arched entryway. Zora's heart pounded. This was the moment her husband risked everything to atone—and she would stand by him, her presence the only defense he truly needed.
A bailiff led them into Courtroom 3B. Spectators filed into benches; the gallery already brimmed with reporters clicking aw
