Chapter 86 The Burden of Guilt
"Indeed," came the reply.An attempt at an out-of-court settlement was suggested, offering him a sliver of hope. For Mr. Hearst, the car damage could be handled through insurance, albeit with higher premiums the following year. However, expecting Lee Bing to shoulder all the repair costs was akin to a death sentence. "Have you examined his financial situation?" Sean appeared to possess some insider knowledge.Ashley confessed she hadn't delved that far. "I'm not entirely certain.""Lee Bing's business collapsed, resulting in a cascade of lawsuits that decimated his finances. He has his mother and daughter to consider. Sending him to prison would shatter their family."A pang of empathy resonated in Ashley's heart; her own family had suffered a similar fate.Sean didn't intend to influence her decision. "However, if you allow personal affairs to influence every trial, it can be draining. Adhering strictly to the law can simplify matters.""My client is not open to a settlement," Ashley declared.Given Damian's obstinate nature, this didn't come as a surprise. Sean inquired, "Are you acquainted with the Chief Judge of the Rochester City First Court?"Ashley responded with a shake of her head. "I'm aware of him, but he doesn't know me."In essence, it was as if she didn't know him at all.Sean set his coffee aside. "Let's go, I'll introduce you to him."A wave of surprise washed over Ashley, quickly morphing into shock. Sean's actions were essentially expanding her network, bolstering her influence. "Is that appropriate? Arriving unannounced like this implies I'm seeking a favor. If I'm too overt about my self-interest, he'll likely be repelled."Who appreciates sycophants, after all?Sean dismissed her concerns. "If you're planning to build your career in Rochester City, you'll need to make your presence known on Pier Street. Today is merely about becoming a familiar face. You don't have to utter a word."Sean had been navigating Rochester City's legal circles for years, amassing a wealth of connections and insights. He was indeed a valuable ally.Without further contemplation, Ashley accepted his offer. "Thank you, Sean."Sean took the wheel, and within half an hour, they arrived at the Supreme Court.This was Ashley's inaugural visit to the court for non-work-related purposes, and she felt slightly out of place.Conversely, Sean moved through the building with ease, receiving warm greetings from familiar faces who regarded him more as a VIP than a lawyer.The presiding judge, a man slightly over fifty, donned reading glasses and a white shirt. He radiated a sense of kindness rather than authority, although his penetrating gaze was inescapable.Upon encountering him, Sean eschewed the usual formalities, opting to tease him instead. "How many times have I advised you to reduce your intake of fatty foods and increase your physical activity? Your belly seems to be expanding!"The judge, typically authoritative with his gavel, now resembled a bashful old man patting his stomach, laughing heartily. "You've never uttered a kind word to me. If I had known you'd develop such a sharp tongue, I would have never allowed you to become a lawyer!"Sean playfully toyed with a potted plant, continuing his jests. "You can't even keep a plant alive. I'll send you some hardier orchids later."This casual banter was a stark contrast to the cautious demeanor Sean exhibited in the courtroom.Upon noticing the young woman accompanying Sean, the judge adjusted his glasses and inquired, "Have you found yourself a girlfriend? Good for you, lad."Ashley attempted to clarify the situation, but Sean interjected, "This is Ashley."The judge's eyes twinkled with delight. "A colleague, how wonderful. You'll have plenty to discuss and can support each other professionally. Join us for dinner sometime."Ashley opened her mouth to speak, but Sean interrupted once more, "She has a case coming up in a few days. Perhaps you could review it and see if it can be resolved without going to court."The judge's expression soured. He was on the verge of reprimanding Sean, but with Ashley present, he held his tongue. "Since when do you resort to pulling strings? I thought you had more integrity."Sean moved away from the plant, leaving a package of tea leaves for the judge, his smile unwavering. "The primary reason for our visit was to deliver this gift. My father selected it, believing it to be perfect for you."Then, turning to Ashley, he suggested, "He's busy, let's depart."True to Sean's word, Ashley didn't utter a single word, nor was she given the opportunity.Upon exiting the courthouse, Ashley contemplated the complex web of relationships. Suddenly, it dawned on her – the judge shared Sean's surname. "He's your...""My uncle, my dad's brother. But I've never exploited the family connection," Sean clarified.Ashley's eyes widened in surprise. "Your family has connections?"Sean further explained, "My family's achievements are their own; I've never relied on their success. Don't categorize me as some privileged child; I'm merely an ordinary lawyer."Ashley was increasingly puzzled. Sean was married, so why was his uncle so enthusiastic about him dating? Moreover, with Sean's resources, why would he go out of his way to assist her?"Sean, forgive my bluntness, but I prefer to be straightforward. I want to ask you..."She glanced at the ring on his finger, prompting him to explain, "My wife died in a car accident two years ago.""I'm sorry.""We were very close, so even after her passing, I couldn't bring myself to remove the ring or let another woman close."Ashley regarded Sean with a newfound sense of warmth. "Your wife was fortunate to have a loving husband every day. I'm sure she's smiling down from heaven."Sean continued, "My wife was a judge. Her accident wasn't accidental; it was intentional. That's why when I heard about your house being deliberately set on fire, it resonated with me."Ashley found his explanation somewhat frustrating yet touching, and she chuckled. "That doesn't justify you introducing me to such influential contacts and causing a misunderstanding with your uncle."
Sean shook his head, a grimace of agony etched on his face. "The truth is," he confessed, "I brought you here with an ulterior motive. My family has been relentless in their pressure for me to remarry, but I have no intention of taking another wife. Your presence was merely a stalling tactic. You owe me nothing in return."She understood the societal pressures of marriage all too well, yet she couldn't reconcile with being used as a mere diversion. "This isn't right," she protested. "I frequent the courthouse, and the Chief Justice may inquire. It's best to clarify the situation."His expression twisted with discomfort. "Please, I just need your help for a week. My aunt has arranged a blind date with a woman from England, and I'm out of excuses. After a week, if you need anything, I'll be there for you, no questions asked."Ashley hesitated, her voice wavering. "Sean, don't put me in this position, I...""I promise! Just one week, like today. There's no pressure; simply be there and leave the rest to me."---Even the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court couldn't persuade Damian to accept a settlement. At the initial trial, Ashley presented a wealth of compelling evidence, leading the court to convict Lee Bing. The trial concluded swiftly within a day, with Lee Bing detained for intentional injury and malicious property damage. Due to his inability to repay a substantial sum, Lee Bing faced a litany of charges, culminating in a sentence of five and a half years of imprisonment. All his assets were frozen and auctioned off to compensate Damian. The gavel struck with finality, yet Ashley felt no sense of triumph in her victory. She exited the civil court, her emotions a tumultuous whirlpool. She had won the case, but at what cost? A family was left in ruins, and to Damian, the compensation was nothing more than petty cash. Suddenly feeling adrift, she questioned whether the majesty of the law was truly a force for good. "Ashley?" A voice called from behind. She turned, surprised by the unexpected interruption.
