Chapter 137: In The Court

Words : 1222 Updated : Oct 9th, 2025

Chapter 137: In The Court ’The hall still looks the same’ was Athena’s first thought as she stepped into the elders’ council hall, holding her children’s hands tightly. The familiar scent of old wood and polished stone enveloped her, a bittersweet reminder of the countless decisions made in this very space. The only different thing was the projector that Aiden had mounted yesterday with their permission regarding today’s case, a stark, modern addition against the timeless backdrop of the hall. Athena felt a strange sense of dislocation seeing the sameness after all these years, for it felt like a telltale sign that these elders were still the same—stoic as ever, and frustratingly shallow to believe in outdated and faulty proofs. But today, resolute and ready, she would claw her way through their ignorance to present such compelling evidence that there would be no room for foolish judgments. "Athena, is there a problem?" She heard Antonio whisper, his voice low and tinged with concern, drawing her back to the moment. She shook her head, aware of an intense, burning gaze on her. She already knew who had it, and there was no need to turn. "I’m fine, Antonio. Let’s sit in the opposite seats." With a quick yet elegant stride, she made her way to the designated bench, still holding the twins’ small hands, followed closely by Gianna and Antonio. Aiden and Old Mr. Thorne brought up the rear, accompanied by two of his security detail, eyes scanning the room for any hint of threat. The rest remained outside, vigilant in keeping an eye out for the gang, in coalition with others stationed at hidden spots around the court, and those reporting from the inner chambers. "A lot of people have gathered for this meeting..." Old Mr. Thorne remarked, his seasoned eyes checking out the throng of people seated and staring at them inscrutably. Athena couldn’t agree more. There were more spectators here than there had been at her case six years ago, likely because this one involved children—a raw nerve that drew an audience. The absence of available seats propelled her thoughts; the only reason theirs had been left empty was due to someone securing a perfect number for them. Who could that be? Her brow furrowed as she subtly scanned for a familiar face in the bustling crowd, even though she had no clear notion of what she was seeking. Her eyes widened slightly in surprise when she caught Sandro’s cheeky wink and Zane’s subtle wave. Of course! She thought, returning their greetings with a small, conspiratorial wave of her own, as they were seated right next to Ewan, who was glaring at his friends with pinched lips. Beside him were Fiona and her parents. Her eyebrows shot up in surprise when Mrs. Margaret, Fiona’s mother, waved at her with a wide, enthusiastic smile. Athena pursed her lips, caught between confusion and curiosity. Although Ciara had informed her of Mrs. Margaret’s discharge from the hospital a few days ago, alongside the woman’s desire to see her, Athena hadn’t bothered to carve out time from her packed schedule for the woman. She didn’t quite understand why Mrs. Margaret would want to meet her. To pick up where she left off years ago, or to grovel like her husband and daughter? The uncertainty sent a ripple of nonchalancy through her. For the moment, she chose not to return the wave, opting instead for a curt nod toward the chirpy woman. "You know you two can run over to her if you wish," Ewan declared hotly to his two friends, who were neither playing nor interacting with the kids but exchanging knowing glances. He could feel a twinge of jealousy pushing up through his chest as he watched Sandro give him a sly smirk. But he wanted nothing that they had—except, perhaps, the easy camaraderie they shared with his children, a connection he felt he lacked. "If you two continue with this, I’ll personally push you away," He warned, his tone mock-serious. "Please do, honey. They are traitors. Who knows if they are in cahoots with her?" Fiona chimed in, chewing gum with feigned nonchalance while examining her freshly manicured nails. Sandro and Zane bit their tongues to suppress outbursts against the wicked woman, opting instead to let Athena handle it with her signature grace. They pretended to be unfazed, gazing straight ahead, but Ewan noticed their sudden stiff composure at Fiona’s remark, prompting a swirl of suspicion in his mind. Why was he staying at Sandro’s house instead of in the comforts of his mansion? His friends had supplied a flimsy excuse—spending time together to prepare for the case in a less lonely environment. Yet he had agreed because the mansion felt desolate; it was an echoing cavern of luxury, yet devoid of genuine warmth. Fiona didn’t count as a companion; her interests were merely superficial, centered on vapid subjects such as fashion trends and meaningless gossip that bored him to tears. Worse still, she usually came home reeking of another man. Even now, as he took a deep breath, her fragrance intermingled with a foreign scent, prickling something uncomfortable deep within him. Just then, the door adjacent to the high podium swung open, and six elderly men draped in flowing regalia trooped out, their solemnity punctuating the moment with an air of authority. Athena thought they looked like priests, yet the aged lines etched into their faces told stories much darker than those of sanctity. She pursed her lips, watching Alfonso rise from his seat to join the elders at the podium, claiming a position near Elder Timothy. "Good morning, everyone..." Elder Timothy began, his voice resonating through the hall like a tolling bell, each word washing over the assembly in waves as his piercing gaze raked across the room filled to the brim. The moment his eyes landed on Old Mr. Thorne, his demeanor shifted subtly, concern sharpening the lines on his face. What was the head of the leading family doing here? He thought, gripping his robe tightly, anxiety creeping in. Of course, he wouldn’t dare send Mr. Thorne away! But how had Athena managed to secure his presence? With a furtive glance, he surveyed Athena, noting the confident stance she held. Changed. He mulled over the thought, a furrow of curiosity settling onto his brow, realizing she was no longer the same woman he had dealt with years prior; she was ready to fight. Looking at Ewan, he hoped the latter had prepared enough ammunition to wage war in this meeting, for considering the stature of Mr. Thorne and Dr. Athena’s influence within the city and country at large, this case would be monumental. "We are gathered here for a certain case of child—or in this case, children’s ownership—brought forward by Mr. Ewan Giacometti against his ex-wife, Athena..." He continued, the air thickening with tension as he pronounced her name. He hesitated, carefully enunciating her full name, "Caddells..." Zack, seated behind Margaret, huffed in anger at the mention. His frustration was palpable. "So, let the case begin. Does anyone have anything to say before we start?" Elder Timothy concluded, his face taut with anticipation. In that charged moment, Athena’s hand shot up immediately, surprising both Timothy and the assembled crowd. "Yes, Elder Timothy. I have something to say."

Chapter 137: In The Court

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