Chapter 307

Julian Montgomery responded with professional gravity. "I'm an attorney, Mr. Sinclair. My sole purpose here is to secure justice for my client and clear her name. No innocent person should suffer for crimes they didn't commit."

Samuel Rivers smirked. "Interesting theory. But with such overwhelming evidence, I'd love to hear how you plan to prove her innocence."

Evelyn Whitmore sat quietly as instructed by the officers. Moments later, a uniformed policeman escorted in the assailant who'd attacked Amelia. The moment Amelia spotted Daniel Carter, she shrank against her brother's chest. Samuel could only hold her tighter as murderous rage flashed across his features.

Julian began his questioning. "We met yesterday, so let's skip introductions. Would you please recount your confession for the record?"

Daniel had already pleaded guilty. He nodded obediently. "Three nights ago, Evelyn contacted me near Silver Peaks River. She transferred fifteen thousand as deposit, ordering me to assault a woman named Amelia Rivers. The remaining fifteen would come after completion."

"The idea of money and... other benefits clouded my judgment. I agreed. Later, she messaged me Amelia's hospital room details. That's where the police caught me."

Julian pounced immediately. "You're claiming my client Evelyn Whitmore commissioned this crime?"

"Absolutely!" Daniel confirmed.

"How did you two initially meet?"

"It was... random. She found my contact online."

Julian's voice turned razor-sharp. "Records show you were laid off two months ago. Too ashamed to tell your family, you've been doing odd jobs - including distributing flyers for a new barbecue joint three days ago. That's when you first met my client by Silver Peaks River, correct?"

Daniel's eyes darted sideways. "That was just... cover. She told me to pose as a flyer distributor to avoid suspicion."

"Fascinating." Julian's tone dripped sarcasm. "You maintained this charade for two months? Are you suggesting my client plotted against Miss Rivers two months in advance? That's remarkably thorough for someone who hadn't even met Nathaniel Grayson then."

Daniel scrambled. "Evelyn kept saying we needed patience! She was jealous of Amelia's history with Nathaniel. Wanted everything planned perfectly for when Amelia returned."

Julian's voice boomed. "Lies! My client didn't know Nathaniel Grayson two months ago! Why would she target a complete stranger? Your story makes zero sense!"

Daniel started sweating. "I... I don't remember details! But Evelyn transferred the money! Check my phone records!"

Julian countered smoothly. "My client's phone went missing that day. It was later recovered by police, then collected by Nathaniel's secretary. Anyone could've accessed it during that window to make that transfer."

Samuel interrupted impatiently. "Enough with the speculation, Mr. Montgomery. Unless you produce this mystery witness you promised, we're done here."

Julian checked his watch discreetly, concern flickering across his face as he glanced at Evelyn. The witness should have arrived by now.

"Please excuse me while I make a call."