Burn Me Once, Burn With Me novel Chapter 279

Gennifer began by presenting the plaintiff’s evidence. “Ladies and gentlemen, if you’ll look here, you’ll see that the original research date provided by Starseek Research Institute comes after the date submitted by the plaintiff, Mr. Farrar.”

The question of chronology, once established, all but sealed the fate of this defense. The outcome seemed inevitable.

Gennifer lifted her chin, her eyes brimming with smug satisfaction as she glanced at Ruby.

Her mentor had been right all along.

Ruby was nothing but a disgraced ex-con, long since cast out by the industry—what did she have to fear from someone like that?

“I object to the authenticity of evidence produced solely by the opposing party,” Ramsey interjected, voice calm but firm. “The research timeline provided by the plaintiff is inaccurate.”

He continued, “Additionally, we have evidence of our own for Your Honor’s review.”

Ramsey stood and handed a folder to the bailiff.

The judge accepted the documents, brows knitting as she leafed through the pages.

After a moment, she closed the file and looked at Ruby, her gaze deepening thoughtfully.

Setting the papers aside, she announced that the debate would continue.

Back and forth, Ramsey Blake and Gennifer sparred—neither side yielding, though it seemed at times Gennifer had the upper hand. She even found time to shoot Ruby a few taunting looks across the courtroom.

Gennifer waited with absolute confidence for the judge’s decision, ready to press charges against Starseek Research Institute and its director, Victor. But to everyone’s shock, the court dismissed the case due to insufficient evidence.

“The court will issue its ruling within one month,” the presiding judge announced, her expression stern as she declared the session adjourned.

“Why?” Gennifer’s voice was thick with disbelief.

She shot to her feet, anger written across her face.

Farrar’s eyes widened in outrage. “We’ve both submitted comprehensive evidence—how could it be dismissed?”

The judge regarded them coolly, her words brooking no argument. “You’ll have to wait for the ruling.”

Her tone stifled any protest they might have made.

Gennifer bit her lip in frustration but had no choice but to let it go.

Farrar stood, bristling with anger, his earlier deference toward Gennifer all but forgotten. Still, remembering her status, he turned and vented his frustration on his subordinates instead.

A heavy, oppressive silence settled over the plaintiff’s side.

Meanwhile, Ruby’s group was visibly more at ease.

They gathered their files, preparing to leave, when someone called out.

“Ruby.”

Ruby froze, her body tensing.

Gennifer’s eyes sparkled as she practically skipped over to him, giddy as a schoolgirl.

Cassian stood leaning against the side of a limited-edition Maybach, his gaze drawn by Gennifer’s call.

But instead of landing on her, his eyes flicked past and settled unexpectedly on Ruby. A flash of surprise crossed his face, but as soon as he spotted Victor at Ruby’s side, his expression cooled.

Gennifer, always quick to pick up on a shift in the room, immediately noticed Ruby’s presence. Her smile grew even sweeter, and she sidled up to Cassian with a bashful air. “Cassian, what brings you here?”

Cassian lowered his gaze to her, eyes narrowing playfully before softening into a gentle, doting smile. “You were in court—I had to come.”

He reached out, ruffling her hair as if rewarding her.

Gennifer blushed even deeper.

The affectionate display made Victor’s brow furrow, his already serious face darkening further. He snuck a glance at Ruby, only relaxing when he saw her expression was as calm as ever.

Ruby caught his worried look and offered a reassuring smile.

She ignored the lovestruck pair and was about to walk on when Gennifer’s voice drew her back.

“Cassian, I never expected the attorney on the other side to be my own sister!”

Her tone was full of delighted disbelief.

Cassian obligingly turned his gaze on Ruby, his eyes deep and unreadable. “Oh?”