𝐓𝐰𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐎𝐛𝐬𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧 | 18+

𝐂𝐇𝐀𝐏𝐓𝐄𝐑 𝟕

Warning: Please be aware that everything written here is purely fictional and should not be taken as fact. My goal is to create a compelling narrative that mimics the atmosphere and elements of a real trial.

⋆༺𓆩☠︎︎𓆪༻⋆

- 𝙾𝚌𝚝𝚘𝚋𝚎𝚛 𝟻, 𝟸𝟶𝟸𝟹 - 𝟸:𝟸𝟶 𝙿.𝙼. -

Adam straightened up, his smirk still in place. "Just making conversation, Professor. No harm in that, right?"

Mikkelsen smiled lightly. "No harm at all, as long as it's just conversation." He glanced at Mia, who looked relieved and slightly embarrassed. "You alright, Ms. Lopez?"

"Yes, Professor. Just caught off guard," she replied, stepping a bit closer to me.

Adam nodded, his charming demeanor returning. "I'll see you inside," he said, giving us a nod before turning away.

Mikkelsen watched him go, then turned to us. "Be careful around him. Adam has a way of getting under people's skin."

"Thanks, Professor," Mia said, looking at me with a mixture of relief and gratitude.

"Let's head in. The trial is about to start," Mikkelsen said, guiding us toward the courtroom doors.

We entered the courtroom, and the grandeur of the space struck me. The high ceiling, adorned with intricate moldings and a grand chandelier, gave the room a majestic feel. Rows of wooden benches were filled with people, their hushed conversations creating a low hum. At the front of the room, a large judge's bench dominated the space, flanked by flags and the seal of the court.

We found seats near the middle, and I glanced around, taking in the faces of those gathered. Some were unfamiliar, guards and staff, while others were strangers, here for their own reasons. The air was thick with anticipation, everyone waiting for the trial to begin.

The bailiff's voice cut through the murmurs, calling for everyone to rise. We stood as the room fell into a respectful silence. Judge Hathaway, a woman with a stern yet fair demeanor, surveyed the room before nodding for us to sit.

"Court is now in session," Judge Hathaway declared, her voice resonating with authority. "The case of the California vs. Robert Johnson will now commence."

The prosecutor, Mr. Harper, stood and addressed the court. "Your Honor, the state will prove beyond a reasonable doubt that Robert Johnson is guilty of the heinous murders of his wife and son. We will present evidence and witness testimonies that will show his guilt unequivocally."

Adam, seated at the defense table, stood as well. His demeanor was calm and collected. "Your Honor, the defense will demonstrate that Robert Johnson is innocent of these charges. The evidence will show that he could not have committed these crimes."

The first witness, William Thompson, was called to the stand. He was clearly nervous, his hands shaking slightly as he adjusted the microphone.

"Please state your name and occupation for the record," Mr. Harper instructed.

"William Thompson. I'm a financial analyst, Johnson's colleague," he replied, his voice wavering.

Mr. Harper began his questioning, leading Mr. Thompson through a series of detailed inquiries about his interactions with Robert Johnson. Each question seemed to build on the last, painting a picture of deceit and manipulation.

"Mr. Thompson, can you describe the last interaction you had with Mr. Johnson?" Mr. Harper asked.

Thompson cleared his throat. "It was the day before the murders. He seemed agitated, kept talking about financial troubles and... and his family."