Prologue

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The mahogany-paneled courtroom in New York City was filled with anticipation. Emma Sinclair sat at the polished oak table with Michael. In the audience, Jacob Pendragon, Michael's brother, and Emma's sister Eleanor fidgeted nervously. 

The jury filed in, their eyes curious yet impartial. Emma's heart raced. She had fought many cases, but this one—the malpractice case that could unravel Michael's career—was personal. Jacob, stoic yet haunted, sat behind her. 

His gaze bore into the judge, who adjusted his robes, ready to deliver the verdict. Pendragon Capital's reputation hung in the balance as the courtroom held its breath.As the judge's lips parted, Emma braced for the words that would echo through their intertwined destinies. Her fingers tightened around her pen as the prosecution presented damning evidence—charts, medical records, and tearful testimonies. 

Michael Pendragon, once a celebrated surgeon, sat rigid, his eyes darting between the jury and the judge. Emma fought for every inch, dissecting the plaintiff's claims and exposing gaps in their argument. Eleanor, her sister, whispered encouragement, her faith unwavering.

 Jacob Pendragon, hidden in the shadows, clenched his fists. His brother's fate intertwined with Pendragon Capital's legacy. Then, the moment of truth arrived. "Ladies and gentlemen of the jury," the judge intoned, "Have you reached a verdict?"The foreperson stood—a beacon of hope or despair. "We have, Your Honor." 

Emma's heart raced. Michael's career hung in the balance. 

"In the case of Williams v. Pendragon," the foreperson declared, "we find the verdict in favor of the defendant, Dr. Michael Pendragon." The judge banged his gavel and announced that Michael was not guilty and would not be held accountable for the death of Mr. Williams.Relief washed over Emma. Michael's eyes met hers—a silent thank you. 

Jacob's shoulders sagged as the two brothers hugged, while Eleanor squeezed Emma's hand. Two months of coffee, files, papers, and all-nighters didn't seem so tiring now that Michael was free of the suit. 

However, the thought of another patient lost on the operating table, with their family outside hoping that his skilled hands would save them, would forever haunt Michael.Pendragon Capital would live another day. 

But as Emma stepped out of the courtroom, she wondered if justice had truly prevailed.

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