Chapter 205: The Trial, Part II
"Evidence?" The judge’s explanation did not dispel the general confusion that settled in Yanad’s mind. "What kind of evidence is that? Who provided it?"
Melania’s heart hammered in her chest. She glanced at Hayim, whose expression mirrored her own disbelief. How had they ended up in this nightmare?
The judge’s gaze bore into the princess with unwavering severity. "Princess Melania Ruan, you stand accused of the grievous crime of infidelity, a transgression against the sanctity of your marriage to Crown Prince Yanad Ruan. What do you have to say about this?"
Melania’s mind raced, grappling with the absurdity of the accusation. She knew she was innocent and yet, somewhere deep inside, she had to admit that she was not surprised.
She shot a desperate glance at Prince Yanad, but his face was a mask of confusion and betrayal.
Valon, seated with the rest of the royal family, curled his thin lips into a smug smirk. He had orchestrated this entire farce, and now he relished in Melania’s anguish.
The judge continued, "Your Highness, evidence has been presented anonymously that suggests your involvement in an illicit affair with the accused, Hayim, the artist sponsored by you repeatedly."
The courtroom buzzed with murmurs of disbelief. Melania’s eyes darted to Valon, who nodded at his assistant standing next to the judge. The prince’s aide handed two damning pieces of evidence—a familiar white envelope that had been already unsealed, and a large square of something sturdy, wrapped loosely in white silk cloth.
’The portrait! I recognize that piece of silk over it... That damned gallery owner must have stolen it from Hayim’s studio!’