Chapter 26 - The Custody Ambush
The morning Thomas’s dossier was sent to the authorities, Sebastian made his most desperate move.
Family court was a circus of reporters as Julian formally filed a petition to overturn the custody agreement, citing Elena's "corporate distractions" and "alienation."
Elena sat at the defense table, completely unfazed, flanked by her terrifyingly competent legal team.
Julian sat across the aisle, sweating profusely, constantly looking to Sebastian for reassurance.
"Your Honor, my client is simply asking for a chance to be a father to his biological son," Julian's expensive lawyer argued.
"He has completed rehabilitation and is financially supported by his uncle, a respected member of the Sterling family."
The judge, a stern woman with zero tolerance for billionaires wasting her time, looked over her glasses at Elena.
"Does the defense have a response?" the judge asked.
Elena stood up smoothly, adjusting the cuffs of her immaculate white blazer.
"Your Honor, we do not need to argue the legal merits of Arthur Sterling's ironclad trust today," Elena stated clearly.
"We simply request a brief recess. I believe Mr. Julian Sterling's primary financial sponsor is about to become entirely unavailable."
Sebastian frowned, shifting uncomfortably in the gallery seating.
At that exact moment, the heavy oak doors of the courtroom swung open.
Three federal agents in dark suits marched down the center aisle, flashing their badges to the bailiff.
"Sebastian Sterling?" the lead agent called out, his voice echoing in the silent room.
"You are under arrest for international money laundering, wire fraud, and violating the International Emergency Economic Powers Act."
Sebastian's aristocratic mask shattered completely.
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"This is an outrage! I am a Sterling!" he roared as the agents pulled his arms behind his back and slapped heavy steel handcuffs on his wrists.
Julian watched in absolute, paralyzing horror as his golden ticket was dragged out of the courtroom, kicking and screaming like a common criminal.
