Harlequin Love Inspired Suspense July 2020--Box Set 2 of 2 by Katy Lee

Author:Katy Lee
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Harlequin
Published: 2020-10-15T00:00:00+00:00

CHAPTER SEVEN

Zeke watched Mrs. Volto answer questions on the stand, a tissue in one hand and a glass of water in the other. Occasionally, she would pause for breath or to take a sip of water before continuing her testimony. Zeke had to admit that she was an incredibly convincing and sympathetic witness, the straining fabric across her baby bump lending her a distinct vulnerability. She had also been careful to wear little makeup and style her hair modestly, lest the jurors judge her as a privileged and extravagant wife of a gangster. Willy had advised his client with a shrewd and clever eye for detail, and he had a front row seat to watch the action unfold, as the two opposing counsels slugged it out in the courtroom.

“Is it true, Mrs. Volto,” the prosecutor said, walking toward the stand, “that you were placed under immense pressure by your husband to keep his crimes secret from the authorities?”

She dabbed the tissue on her nose and sniffed. “Yes.”

“Did Mr. Volto ever use violence against you to ensure your compliance?”

“Yes.”

“Can you elaborate, please?” The prosecutor touched the wooden surround of the witness box. “I understand that this subject is a painful business, but please try to tell us in your own words exactly what forms of abuse you suffered at the hands of Leonardo Volto.”

From his position standing at the side of the court, Zeke glanced at Mr. Volto, whose face was scarlet with apparent fury, fists clenched on the table in front of him. His lawyer leaned across and whispered in his ear, most likely warning his client against showing any form of aggression. It was not a good look to a jury.

“Leonardo would often slap me or pull my hair or punch my stomach.” She placed a hand on her bump and rubbed. “That’s why I have to do everything possible to save this little one from being hurt. Leo said that if I ever betrayed him, he would cut me into a thousand pieces and mail them to my father, even while I’m carrying his child.”

Audible gasps could be heard around the room, this revelation shocking even the hardiest of courtroom personnel. But Zeke was more surprised than most, because Mrs. Volto had steadfastly maintained that her husband would never hurt their baby. She had either lied previously or she was lying now.

“Thank you, Mrs. Volto,” the prosecutor said, retaking his seat, deciding to end on this bombshell. “I have no further questions.”

Mr. Volto’s defense attorney leaped to his feet. “Mrs. Volto,” he began, making his way out from behind the counsel table. “I’m a little confused.”

Mrs. Volto raised her eyebrows. “That can happen sometimes as we get older.”

Laughter fluttered through the court and the attorney smiled defensively, waiting for the snickering to die away.

“Mr. Volto has wanted to become a father for a good many years, and his dream has finally come true.” He gestured toward his client. “Now why on earth would Mr. Volto want to cut you into a thousand pieces if it would harm his precious baby?”

Mrs.

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