First Step

Xavier~

"My Lord, we can not believe what Miss Luis is claiming by showing us the CCTV footage since there is a 15-minute gap between the timing of Alicia's murder and the footage. The food store is about five minutes away from Mr. Thompson's residence. Therefore, it's equally conceivable that he killed her after going to that supermarket." Derrick countered Bella's argument with his characteristic arrogance.

I glanced at the judge, noting how deeply he was contemplating Derrick’s statement. A wave of dread crept over me. Derrick was known for twisting facts so convincingly, and I knew how easily he could steer things in his favor. I threw a fleeting look at Bella. How does she stay so calm, even under such direct attacks? Does she feel nothing when Derrick mocks her? Her silence under his verbal blows irked me. How could she endure such taunting without flinching?

"Would you like to respond to Mr. Merchant’s statement, Miss Luis?" The judge’s voice broke through the tension.

"Of cour