- 48 -

161 21 78
                                    

The courtroom was quiet as everyone settled in, the tension heavy in the air. Y/N sat at her table, flanked by her lawyers. Beside her were her family and friends—Damien and Sofia Manfredi, and her closest friends Aubrey Plaza, Miranda Kerr, and Elizabeth Olsen. Across the room, Luca Falcone sat with his mother, Monica. Their smug smiles showed just how certain they were of their victory today.

As the judge entered, everyone rose and then settled back down as the hearing officially began. The judge reviewed the case files before addressing the room, his voice calm but authoritative.

"We're here today to finalize the transfer of Falcone Entertainment," the judge began. "According to the agreement, Luca Falcone will assume ownership of the company... for a sum of $2.2 million."

Luca's eyes widened as he leaned forward in shock. "Excuse me, Your Honor. This company is worth $20 billion. There's been a mistake."

The judge turned his gaze to Y/N's lawyer, who cleared her throat and stood up. "Your Honor, there is no mistake. Over the past several months, Falcone Entertainment has experienced significant financial losses due to numerous failed investments and a loss of investor confidence. Here are the latest valuation documents, showing a market worth of exactly $2.2 million."

The lawyer handed the paperwork to the judge, who reviewed it carefully, nodding as he examined each page. "It is clearly documented here that Falcone Entertainment is, indeed, valued at $2.2 million."

Monica's face twisted in anger. "This is ridiculous! Then Luca wants to sue Y/N Falcone for racial discrimination and assault!"

Y/N's lawyer remained unfazed, standing again to address the accusation. "Your Honor, my client, Y/N Manfredi, is widely respected as an inclusive employer. Her workforce is composed of individuals from diverse backgrounds—47% are people of color, 30% are Asian, and the rest include a significant number of mothers. We have signed testimonies from her employees, commending her as a supportive boss who fosters a healthy work environment."

The judge nodded, looking unimpressed with Monica's claim. "And the accusation of assault?"

The lawyer adjusted her glasses and continued, "The alleged assault is completely fabricated. Monica Falcone planted this idea in Luca's head, accusing my client of assaulting him. However, police records and eyewitness accounts confirm that Luca sustained his injuries after a fall down a flight of stairs, which he later required medical treatment for. Doctors and police officers are prepared to testify that there was no indication of physical harm caused by anyone else."

Y/N leaned over to Miranda, unable to hide her smirk. "How much is all this costing me?"

Miranda gave a small, satisfied smile. "More than you want to know. But trust me, he's going to come out of this penniless. Every cent we've spent is worth it."

Luca, visibly panicking, tried another angle. "Then I want paternal rights to my daughter! I want custody of Amelia Falcone!" He slammed his hand on the table, eyes narrowed at Y/N and Miranda.

Y/N's lawyer stood again, unwavering. "Your Honor, this is yet another unfounded claim designed to complicate my client's life. Mrs. Falcone and her wife, Elizabeth, have been married for over eleven years. During that time, there has been no evidence or account of infidelity. Together, they have three beautiful children—Nathaniel, Amelia, and Adelaide Falcone. Each of their birth certificates clearly states that Y/N Falcone is their mother. Additionally, recent DNA tests, supervised by law enforcement officers here in this very court, confirmed with 99.8% certainty that all three children are biologically related to my client."

The judge looked at Luca, his expression stern. "Mr. Falcone, unless you can provide solid evidence to substantiate your claims, all I see are repeated accusations with no merit. You appear to be motivated solely by a desire to obtain money from your sister through baseless lawsuits."

Billion Dollar Love Affair. Where stories live. Discover now