A Flawed Fragility: Chapter 32
Author: TheLadyHoll
Pairing: Andy/Miranda
Rating: M
Disclaimer: Yes, they are mine. I own them. Come to me my pretties and dance, DANCE I SAY. Or, more truthfully, not...
Chapter 32: This Way Comes
'Dun-Dun!' (Law & Order: SVU bell sound plays)
She's back! Court is in session, but who has the ball? Okay, that's about as far as my sports analogies go. (Yay team, win the ball, score the net!) Here is the latest installment - and I will disclaim now, that as much as I binge-watch L&O and may believe otherwise, I am not a lawyer & am aware there are many inconsistencies in my writing of this court scene, the focus is more on the interpersonal nature of the events taking place. That being said, I hope you enjoy! xx
P.s. Two of you I KNOW will/are read/reading this, owe me a great deal in backlogged prompts and/or updates. I expect payment! ;)
...
"You haven't been this sick in a while." Andrea remarked the morning of the next stage of the trial.
Today, arguments would begin regarding motive and the circumstances around Miranda's assault. This meant the jury would be privy to every piece of dirty laundry Stephen decided to air in front of them. And she could only imagine what they would be. At least her girls were away from all this madness. She knew her ex-husband would keep them away from the papers, and to the best of his ability, off of the internet; although she held little hope for that request. They were her children after all, and as such were not to be denied something when they believed in their right to it.
The emergency doctor from the night of the attack would be in court to testify as well. Stephen had previously stated Miranda had wanted to get back together and told him she was pregnant prior to being attacked. But both Miranda and Andrea knew that Miranda had had no idea of her condition before being told in the hospital after receiving treatment that may have otherwise been withheld had she responded positively, or even semi-positively to the standard policy question of whether there was any possibility she could be pregnant. And at 49 and single, Miranda's response had been a decidedly firm 'no'.
"I think it's nerves," Miranda gasped hoarsely before she turned to the bowl again, and shuddering, pitched forward as the muscles in her stomach contracted violently. But there was nothing left to come up, so she spent the next thirty seconds dry-heaving until she could once again regain control, due in significant part to the circles Andrea was rubbing on her back and the cool cloth she had draped over the back of Miranda's neck that stopped the sickly flush from spreading to her face again.
"Alright," Andy said, helping Miranda to her feet, a steadying hand at her back as she washed her mouth out and reapplied her makeup where it had smeared or ran. "We have about twenty minutes before Roy arrives, let's go downstairs and you put your feet up while I put some tea in a thermos so you can drink it in the car on the way to the courthouse. We'll see if that settles your stomach…And you, my tiny, incorrigible darlings" she bent over to speak to Miranda's Anna Sui silk sheathed belly, "be good for mommy today, okay? No somersaults or making her sick while she's on the stand." Miranda smirked and smoothed a hand over the swell before rising up on her toes slightly for a kiss. "Mmm, I'm sure they'll listen," she murmured wryly as Andy picked up Miranda's heels from the floor and carried them for her as they went downstairs.
That particular edict had been made recently as Andy had been horrified to see Miranda come downstairs one morning in 3 and a half inch heels and very nearly pitch forward and down two flights if she hadn't had been able to grab the railing when she went down and simply swung forward and landed on her knees. After that, shoes had been banned on the stairs by a hysterical Andrea. She had tried to ban heels entirely but Miranda come back with a firm 'No', and the subject was dropped for the time being. Once Miranda hit her third trimester in two weeks though, Andy was putting her foot down. No more heels for the rest of the pregnancy and then until she was fully recovered from the birth.
As the cameras flashed outside of the courthouse, Andy realized that the images the paparazzi would have captured by the end of this trial and pregnancy would essentially constitute an entire baby album. And she had been so distracted by the various medical, legal and otherwise worrisome circumstances surrounding the pregnancy that aside from buying a few basic pieces in Paris during Fashion Week, nothing had been done really to prepare for the babies arrival. Nor had anything been done to document Miranda's pregnancy - no photo sessions or memory books, they hadn't even registered for the hypno-birth or Lamaze or whatever classes recommended by Dr. Jansen at the 16 week appointment.
Andy resolved then and there that the only documentation of Miranda's second pregnancy was NOT going to come from her despicable colleagues in the press. She would make sure Miranda felt as though this was something to celebrate rather than dread - because although she knew Miranda wanted the babies, she could see the other woman being cheated out of the joy she should be feeling by the looming fear of the TTTS diagnosis and the stress of the trial and worrying about Caroline and Cassidy - not to mention Irv making good on his threats to go to the board.
However it looked as though things were going to get worse before they got better. Their morning had already begun early with Miranda being ill. She had managed some of the tea in the car and Andy was using a large Prada tote to carry snacks and a bottled smoothie she had blended that morning but Miranda had been too queasy to drink. She highly doubted the older woman would eat anything in the courtroom or in view of any people, but perhaps there was a space they could find some privacy during the recesses and breaks in the proceedings. If not, Andy was going to insist on going back to the car and just having Roy circle the courthouse while Miranda ate something.
Unless called unexpectedly, Andy's role in the trial was over for the most part. Miranda, however would be subject to questioning by both Stephen's lawyer and any expert witnesses they called to the stand. The afternoon would see Stephen take his turn being questioned by Alex Cabot and listen to the questioning of the prosecution's witnesses, which included the intake doctor from the emergency room from the night of the attack, in addition to Dr. Jansen. The one snag they were expecting was the defense to point out that the allegations against Stephen through SVU had been made days after the attack, and that the initial outcry had been to a family member in the form of Sergeant Munch, even though Miranda and Andy weren't engaged at the time.
The press had, of course, once again turned out in full force, and there was a palpable tension they seemed to revel in as opposing sides took their respective places. Olivia and Munch had tagged along with Alex, who interpreted their curious glances and she stood, addressing the judge. "If your honor would allow for a few minutes more, Ms. Priestly will be present, you can confirm with security that she is in the building."
"Well then why isn't she present now? My client has the right to a fair and speedy trial."
"And my client has the right to use the ladies room." Alex countered sharply.
"Powdering her nose, no doubt," Stephen murmured under his breath, sitting to the side of his attorney.
"Mr. Tomlinson, I believe you'll find that's called morning sickness."
"But it's not morning anymore."
"Nice to see you've done your research regarding the development of your children, Mr. Tomlinson, considering your supposed concern for their welfare under the care of your ex-wife."
"Alright!" The judge broke in with a bang of her gavel, seeing the bailiff open the courtroom doors to let the two women through. "Since arguments have obviously already begun, court is now in session."
Alex walked forward to the imposing wooden desk and slid a piece of paper smoothly across the waxed top which the judge glanced at briefly and nodded, waiting until the blonde had returned to her seat to look over the top of her glasses at the crowded courtroom before speaking.
"As a clarification before we begin, given the unique circumstances of this case, and its continued infamy in the press, I have been authorized to make a statement regarding today's proceedings as it pertains to the subject matter being brought forward by the defense. By now, there has been significant coverage of Miranda Priestly's recent hospitalization and subsequent absence from work. In addition to exacerbating any medical issues, the stress of the trial has put Ms. Priestly in a very difficult situation and she's here today, as is undersigned in this doctor's note, under the permission and direct supervision of her doctor, who has been called here today as well to testify by the defense. Dr. Jansen you may take the stand."
The man sitting next to Stephen stood, and buttoning his suit jacket over a medium paunch that revealed a 50+ year physique that couldn't be hidden by a three thousand dollar suit and carefully styled and coloured hair, strolled to the front of the desk, beginning confidently and pleasantly - evidently trying to charm the attractive, intelligent older woman.
"Dr. Jansen, thank you for being here today and taking time out of your busy schedule. Would you be so kind as to expand on the details of Miranda Priestly's second pregnancy as you have observed over the last 5 months."
"Recent traumatic events have caused a psychological and physiological state of advanced distress and as such, aggravated certain conditions that may otherwise not have been a factor in the maintenance of the pregnancy. At 50 years old, Miranda was in a good state of physical health and as such was able to conceive naturally her second set of twins. However early on in the pregnancy, during the first trimester, she sustained serious injuries from an assault committed by her ex-husband - my apologies, allegedly committed by her ex-husband…"
"You keep talking about Miranda's health, and how well she takes care of herself as a testament to her current state of expectancy. But is it not true that pre-birth, the infants have been diagnosed with a serious congenital condition that more than 50% of the time results in birth defects and an even higher mortality rate in utero?
"Certainly, it takes two to tango, so to speak So if we're calling to question the conception, as is the case with congenital defects, then Mr. Priestly is as much to blame as Miranda is or more, as it's his DNA that decides the secondary chromosome."
The older man seemed unconcerned, waving off the facts as he continued to spin his scenario of a work-obsessed ex-wife, reluctant to part with any measure of their shared wealth or possessions, and using the excuse of an unviable pregnancy to manipulate divorce proceedings and sway the jury to a sympathy vote in the accusation of assault.
"The odds are highly suggestive that the affected fetuses Ms. Priestly is carrying will be either stillborn or with significant congenital defects. In fact, the latter is almost a certainty. Why then would an intelligent or rational woman go through with a pregnancy A) from a man she claims to hate and who she claims viciously assaulted her and B) is likely to end in the death of the infants, and as is clearly evident, a great physical toll on her own body, consequently taking a combined toll on a career largely based on physical aesthetic and appearance. There can only be one answer, and it is in fact quite simple. Strategy, using this situation as a series of complex bargaining chips so as to come out of this with the upper hand. So tell me Ms. Priestly, Is this the price you're willing to pay for the larger settlement in the divorce?" A picture of two TTTS affected fetuses flashed back onto the screen, their features distorted and grossly exaggerated in death as they lay on the green cloth backdrop of the surgeon's tray.
"Mr. Carlson, that is quite enough!" The judge and Dr. Jansen looked livid as they stared down the cocky older gentleman holding the remote in his hand.
Andy tore her eyes away from the images on the screen to find Miranda, her own eyes shut tightly and a muscle jumping in her cheek as she tried to slow her racing pulse.
Miranda slowly lowered a trembling hand from her mouth, looking pointedly sideways and down so that neither Stephen or his lawyer could see the stubborn moisture in her eyes.
"Alright, clear the court. I'm calling for a 10 minute recess, we resume with Mr. Tomlinson's testimony and cross examination at 9:50 people so don't go far." She turned to Miranda, "Ms. Priestly would you like to step down and get some fresh air?"
At first, Miranda made a motion as though she were going to stand, but then quickly pressed a hand to her belly and lowered herself carefully back down until she was sitting again. "I don't think I can at the moment," she murmured, addressing Andrea as she barely permitted herself to admit it.
"Your Honor," Andy cut in. "Would it be possible for us instead to have the room to ourselves for a few minutes until the recess is over?"
The judge nodded, still looking concernedly at the off-colour of the older woman's face. "Alright, I'll let the door security know that no one is to be let back in until 9:47. A bailiff will have to remain with you though, Charles?" she nodded at an older black gentleman Andy hadn't noticed before, standing in the far corner where the defendants would be brought in if they were in custody.
"Yes, that's fine," Miranda replied hoarsely, her hand flicking out weakly in an impotent shadow of her typical persona.
Andy was up on the platform and by Miranda's side before the door had closed behind the judge. She ran her hand lightly along the older woman's thigh as she crouched beside her, waiting for Miranda to gather herself enough to speak, noting how the pale fingers on the hand not clutching hers in a death grip were wrapped to the point of bloodlessness around the edge of the chair. Her chest rose and fell as she moderated her breath, willing her heartbeat to slow and the lightheadedness to fade.
"Andrea, I-I don't feel well."
Andy's stomach dropped and she became acutely aware of her own pulse as she knelt there beside her almost-wife, barely noticing as Dr. Jansen re-entered the courtroom, crossing over to them and unscrewing the cap from a bottle of water as she approached, offering it to Miranda.
"Miranda, breathe. Deep breaths, nice and slow. You're okay, you're fine," Dr. Jansen's voice was low and soothing as she encouraged Miranda to take small sips.
"Wh-what if this is all for nothing? What if they're nothing more than embryonic parasites that are simply growing and gaining in mass. What's to say either of them will be born viable?"
Dr. Jansen shook her head, "From the results of the amniocentesis where we were able to test for hormone levels, it's possible to extrapolate an average, expected rate of growth or development. Despite the difference in size and the expected accelerated or slowed development, both twins tested in the same range for hormone levels which tells us that the TTTS is not currently affecting the vital markers for standard development, which would also indicate a decrease or an anomaly in brain function or the proper development of the nervous system. If we were able to see the fetuses in the same way as Mr. Carlson's crude exhibition, they would not look deformed or disfigured. They would only appear to be different gestational ages, the difference of a few weeks."
Miranda drew in a shuddering breath and then another, focusing on the comforting pinch of Andrea's engagement ring against her fingers even as she refused to let go of her hand and on the warmth of the young woman's other hand as it rested protectively over her belly, feeling, Miranda knew, for any sign of cramping or contractions before moving to her lower back and rubbing gently, knowing how much tension the older woman was holding in her body.
ADA Cabot had returned as well at this point, and Detective Benson.
"Miranda, if you need to stop for today, I can ask for a recess until tomorrow," the blonde offered, slightly alarmed at the change in her client's pallor now that the room was empty and there were no judges or jury or reporters causing the need for a show befitting 'La Priestly'.
"But you should know," Olivia continued, "that the defense will be able to call you to the stand again if they make the appeal that they weren't able to ask all of their questions."
"No," Miranda replied hoarsely but firmly, breathing in very deliberately through her nose and out of her mouth before speaking again. "I want this over with today. I won't give him the chance to further perpetrate his assault on myself or my children by prolonging this farce."
"That last trick he pulled lost him major points with the jury," Alex offered bracingly. "He got his desired shock value, but it did more to vilify him than it did you."
"I wish you didn't have to do this. I forced you into this," Andy's eyes were filled with tears although she didn't let them fall. "It's hurting you, it's hurting the babies and making you sick."
"Shh, Andrea. Andrea, you were right. Darling, this is the right thing to do, no matter how hard. I want my girls, our girls, to believe in fighting for themselves. I want them to grow up with that self-worth."
"I can't stand sitting there. It feels like I'm watching you be attacked and I'm not doing anything to stop it."
"But you are…You are the one I look to in all of this and when I have to answer those awful questions, it's really you I'm speaking to Andrea. I could never, EVER divulge these sorts of things to strangers, to anybody really except for you. I can say these things without feeling like I'm being attacked all over again. Sweetheart, you protect me and take care of me in ways I never would have imagined possible. So don't belittle what you are to me, Andrea, because you are everything - and I .do this without you." Miranda was squeezing the younger woman's hand impossibly tight as the doors to the courtroom were opened once more and people started filing in.
"Mr. Priestly, my apologies, Mr. Tomlinson - an honest mistake your honor, although perhaps understandable given that the defendant obviously continues to view himself as such."
"Like hell!" Stephen snarled as his lawyer quickly stood, cutting off any further comment from his client with a loud "Objection!"
"And to what would your lawyer be objecting to on your behalf? The truth? That you are, for all intents and purposes despite being legally separated, still married to Miranda Priestly? Mr. Tomlinson this entire trial is proof positive that you believe you have still or have ever had some stake or claim to Miranda's wealth, property, the children you haven't filed custody for but claim to feel are in danger with Miranda - "
Miranda actually growled at this, although inaudible to anyone but Andrea who was sitting directly next to her and squeezing her hand tightly, making sure the older woman didn't do something rash and fire Alex for even bringing up the idea that Stephen could potentially file for custody, although she knew the blonde woman was really only calling his bluff.
"Even a claim to her body it would seem should you be found guilty of the charges filed against you for aggravated assault and attempted rape. So which is it, Mr. Tomlinson? Do you desire to continue a relationship with a woman you have described as a, and I quote, "frigid bitch and a hysterical, lunatic dyke?"
Stephen spluttered, "What? How did?..."
"Did you forget, Mr. Tomlinson, that anything you say during an interrogation or interview with the police is recorded in the case logs? If so, I certainly feel for So which is it, Mr. Tomlinson? Do you desire to continue a relationship with a woman you have described as a, and I quote, "frigid bitch and a hysterical, lunatic dyke?"
Stephen spluttered, "What? How did?..."
"Did you forget, Mr. Tomlinson, that anything you say during an interrogation or interview with the police is recorded in the case logs? If so, I certainly feel for your own legal clients - especially considering the fees your charge."
Stephen's face was very nearly purple as Alex calmy and cleanly eviscerated his arguments on the stand. The only options left available to him was to admit to criminal activities, or argue against himself that his activities were not criminal in nature, but a direct result of his own incompetence and lack of intelligence.
With the slightest and politest of smiles, Alex went on. "My original starting question, Mr. Tomlinson, was to have you confirm that this is in fact your signature on these papers regarding your prenuptial agreement with Ms. Priestly that she had drawn up at the time of your marriage that you willingly and knowingly signed, and which clearly state the retention of personal assets prior to the marriage and equal division of any property, goods or stocks for which both parties are listed as payees or owners."
Stephen switched tactics yet again, flashing a boyish charming smile at the jury, "I was in love - or I thought I was. I was under her spell, I would have signed anything she asked me to in the right set of garters."
But Alex was ready for him, "I didn't ask how weak your will was, Mr. Tomlinson, my question was how free. And unless you can provide more evidence and definitive proof of coercion, other than expensive lingerie or witchcraft - the audience tittered - "then the prenuptial agreement stands as does its release clause and addendum rendering any post-marital compensation or division of assets null and void in the case of adultery or criminal activities, both of which you appear to have broken."
"Objection, your Honor," Mr. Carlson called out once again. "My client has not been convicted of any criminal charges. The prosecution is poisoning the jury."
"Your Honor, the assault speaks to the nullification of Mr. Tomlinson's pre-marital agreement and therefore motive to commit the crime in question."
"Overruled, but move on quickly Ms. Cabot, I'm inclined to agree with Mr. Carlson on the prejudicial nature of the questions."
"Mr. Tomlinson, you claim to be acting in the best interests of your future children, but it would appear as though your lawyer is concurrently arguing the case for their termination or postulating on the futility of the decision to go through with the pregnancy despite the serious diagnosis -neither of which have anything to do with the assault charges levelled against you or the divorce proceedings between Miranda Priestly and yourself. So which is it Mr. Tomlinson? Are you legitimately concerned for the welfare of the fetuses or have your actions been part of a deliberate scheme to intimidate my client and coerce the jury to avoid prosecution?"
"Of course I'm concerned in the wellbeing of my children. Simply because I had no desire for more children at my age is hardly indicative of my feelings regarding a situation where they already exist."
Andy ground her teeth together. Despite the fact that the man was a complete boor, his career had lent him an a sense of eloquence and a mimicry of well-bred manners that the jury couldn't be faulted for believing upon first glance;
"In that case, why have the only occurrences where you have shown any direct interest in the health and wellbeing of your potential offspring been in the eye of the media or in this courtroom? Because there have been no documented requests for doctors or medical records, or any relevant information that a legitimately concerned father-to-be would be asking for."
"I didn't think she would be able to ignore me if my attempts were made in front of the media - they were my witness to the fact that I have grave misgivings in the ability of my soon to be ex-wife to safely carry my children and raise them thereafter. She hasn't even been parenting her own children these last few weeks. They've been staying with their father, and I have reason to believe that is a direct result of their own marked personal preference." He nodded at his own counsel, who stood with an evidence bag containing several papers that bore the Dalton School crest.
"Let it be noted that the defense would like to enter Exhibit C, proof of the Priestly twins' continued absence from school in the week preceding the Winter break; their current state of residency being with their biological father, Jeremy Priestly."
Now Miranda looked positively ill.
"The girls have been staying with their father while I've been indisposed. The media has also proved to be a major stressor and I wanted my girls away from that."
"How very noble…But, they left before your trip to Paris didn't they? - and your current medical issues didn't come to light until several days after your return to New York. How do you account for that stretch of time when they were supposed to be with you?"
"Objection! We are not here to argue Miranda's custody agreement regarding Caroline and Cassidy Priestly."
"Perhaps we should be considering their obvious preference to live apart from their primary guardian at this point in time."
"Objection!"
Andy ground her teeth together so firmly that Alex glanced sideways at the noise. But Andy was way past caring, it was all she could do not to strangle the smug little man preening in front of the jury and almost gleefully rubbing salt in a wound Andy knew firsthand to be gaping and raw.
"Watch yourself, Mr. Carlson! This is your last warning. Tread carefully here. I agree that the mental health and the happiness of the minors currently residing with Ms. Priestly speak to her capabilities as a parent, but as neither child is present or has indicated through their secondary guardian that they wish to challenge the custody agreement, no testimony can be given on their behalf that isn't wholly based on guesswork and hearsay."
"Should you consult with any child psychologist, as I have, you will find that jealousy over a new sibling is a very common reaction in children under the age of 12, especially when said siblings share the 'uniqueness' of being twins and were conceived by another man who is not their father."
"So you would say a significant part of their distress is based on the number and frequency of sexual partners you have had during their formative years."
"Objection! Relevance and, and complete speculation!"
"Granted. Mr Carlson, you have been warned repeatedly about your use of speculation regarding Caroline and Cassidy Priestly."
"Then, your Honor, the defense would like to call Caroline and Cassidy Priestly to the stand as material witnesses as well as their ability to confirm certain facts and timelines that have otherwise been deemed speculative by the prosecution."
"No!" Miranda's voice rang out jarringly, not a single person other than Andy ever having heard it sound as such. "You will not bring my children into this."
"For four years, they were our children, weren't they Mir?"
Miranda was shaking now, apoplectic and terrified out of her mind that her daughters would be drawn into this madness, forced to listen as their mother was torn apart in the public eye for her sexual history.
"You never had any claim to them, nor did you want any. You never showed a shred of interest in them until now when you believe they could be of use in saving you a few dollars. Do not drag my children into this, Stephen."
"Your honor, would you please instruct the prosecution to prevent their client from threatening mine?"
"Alright people, that's enough." The judge turned to Miranda with a muted but sympathetic set to her features."
"Although, I am loathe to do so, the defense has the right to question their choice of witness."
Although she was sitting, Andy could feel Miranda's body crumple under the weight and implication of the judge's words and she gripped Miranda's hand even more tightly, rubbing her thumb soothingly across the pulse point at Miranda's wrist subtly reminding her to breathe and regulate her heartbeat.
Both women also registered a disgusted scoff from behind them as Dr. Jansen and Detective Benson reacted to the judge's ruling.
"Ms. Priestly, what is the earliest date you can present the minors in question?"
Lightheadedness slowly fading at Andrea's touch, Miranda answered clearly, letting no quaver escape the cool set of her vocal timbre. "My girls are with their father at present, they'll be returning to the city late on Sunday."
"Can't you call them back sooner?"
"Mr. Priestly, although you are entitled to a speedy trial, I think we can let the children enjoy their last few days of vacation with their father. Ms. Priestly, you are so ordered to produce the minors Caroline and Cassidy Priestly for questioning at 9 am Monday morning. Questioning will now resume with the next witness.
"The defense calls Dr. Aubrey Jansen to the stand. Dr. Jansen is an accredited OB-GYN who graduated with honors from Stanford and who has published several scientific articles regarding the causes and treatment of pregnancy-induced blood pressure disorders." Stephen's lawyer bowed his head respectfully in her direction as he gave her background.
"Dr. Jansen, according to the medical records attained from emergency and urgent care the last two times Miranda has been admitted, what was Ms. Priestly found to be suffering from?
"And it is true, is it not, that the Priestly twins in question have been diagnosed with a serious and often fatal disorder of the nervous system - exacerbated by high blood pressure and stress? Wouldn't you say these are the actions of a woman who cares more about her financial values rather than family values?
"Absolutely not."
"The court has just seen the tragic and unfortunately all too common end of these cases."
"The images you just forced on the jury were clearly displaying symptoms that ranged from a late stage 3 to a 4 or even a 5 score on the Quintero scale. Had you bothered to fully read or were able to comprehend my notes you would have seen that Miranda's condition is placeable in the early second stage of the disease."
"But it is possible for that diagnosis to change? I understand Ms. Priestly's recent hospitalization and the reasons behind it may have exacerbated any underlying conditions."
"So there is no guarantee of a healthy delivery."
"There never is. Not in any scenario."
"But we can agree, the risks are drastically heightened."
"Move on, Mr. Carlson."
"Of course, your Honor. Nothing further"
"Dr. Jansen, you may step down."
Alex Cabot stepped out onto the floor, crossing deliberately to the middle of the room as Miranda was called once more.
"Miranda, I appreciate you taking the time to be here today when I know you have taken the limiting of your work schedule seriously, so I will be brief. Is this pregnancy part of an overall plan to force Stephen Tomlinson's hand in signing the divorce papers?"
"No," Miranda replied coldly, now completely recovered from her earlier shakiness and strengthened by her fury at the indignity of being made to explain her decisions and actions regarding her personal life to a group of strangers. After a long moment of silence though, Andy recognized a familiar glint in the blue eyes that caused her legs to clench together and the butterflies in her stomach to dissolve into coiling tendrils of smoke.
"I have no need for Stephen's money. Only for his absence from my life and that of my children without incident or fuss. It is true that Stephen does well for himself financially, however if one were to be so tawdry as to compare, or point out who in the relationship could be considered 'kept', it would most certainly be him."
A choked noise came from Stephen's side of the courtroom but Andy didn't take her eyes off the 'Dragon Lady' in full force.
"What I earn annually, excluding bonus structures outstrips his salary more than three times. I can only assume that's why he came to the townhouse that night. His demeanour, while drunk and sloppy was docile enough until the subject of money came up. Whether or not he thought he could charm me into ignoring the clause in the prenuptial agreement that he freely and willingly signed."
"And what clause is that?"
"It states that if either partner is found to be unfaithful then the splitting of assets and the payment of alimony was rendered null."
Finally, Miranda faced Stephen, meeting him squarely in the eye as she raised her own eyebrow coolly.
"I do hope she was worth the millions you've given up, Stephen."
Andy's nails actually made indents in the wooden bench as her body shook with her response to the wicked grin Miranda let slip for a moment, so that only Stephen as the only looking directly at her could see it.
Stephen's howl of fury was the only thing that stifled her own somewhat violent response as her body shuddered through an orgasm.
This was no weepy, clingy or uncertain battered wife. Not that Andy didn't adore her through every mood, okay - almost every mood. This was Miranda Priestly, Dragon Lady of New York and Icy Queen of the fashion and publishing world, and dear Lord, was it hot.
The entire courtroom tittered, and even the judge was doing a poor job of hiding her smirk behind a copy of the prenuptial agreement she had been presented with as part of evidence. Stephen's face grew redder and redder as Miranda spoke, furious that the tearful woman from before had disappeared. Finally, when Miranda had to pause for the final bursts of laughter or talk to subsist, Stephen exploded.
"You bitch," he snarled under his breath, catching Miranda's eye and avoiding the judge's before turning to his lawyer. "Do something, George? Are you going to let her talk to me like that, on record? In front of the whole court? Object! Do you not have the balls to do it? Then I will. Objection!"
"Mr. Pr-Tomlinson!" the judge replied sharply and Stephen's face turned an alarming shade of puce. "You cannot call your own objections. That being said, the plaintiff will refrain from addressing the defendant directly and vice versa from this point forward. I'll not have my courtroom turned into more of a circus than the media have already done."
Stephen turned pointedly back to his lawyer, making no effort to whisper as he instructed his counsel. "Ask her when she started fucking her 'Girl Friday'. God, that's all I heard around the house, 'Andrea this, Andrea that - calling at all hours of the night. You can sure as hell bet that 'relationship' pre-dates any so called 'assault' - what is on me is not realizing she was a dyke long before that. Those 'Ice Queen' nicknames the press write might as well have been about our sex life."
"Mr. Carlson, control your client! Mr. Tomlinson, I've had enough of this. Unless you can provide concrete proof of a relationship prior to the second attempt at filing for divorce, then as of yet, nothing you have brought to me suggests any reason to ignore the nullifying clause in the prenuptial agreement. Any concerns you might have of a custodial nature may be brought up in a separate trial should you choose to pursue that complaint. Final arguments regarding the charges of assault and attempted set against you will begin next Monday following the testimony of Caroline and Cassidy Priestly.
"Your Honor," the balding counselor interrupted, "I have one more question for the plaintiff."
"Proceed then, Mr. Carlson, but make it quick."
"Of course, your Honor. Ms. Priestly, one final question regarding your behaviour in the admittedly drawn out proceedings of your divorce settlement. If you were truthful, as I have no doubt, in stating that your earnings far outstrip my clients, why have you fought so viciously against amicable negotiations in the settlement. If you are so truly and genuinely concerned about the safety and wellbeing of your children, two of whom were conceived during consensual sex with the man you are now accusing of rape, why then if you could afford to do otherwise, would you put yourself and your children through the stress and rigors of two concurrent legal battles if not for the purpose of leveraging one over the other in an act that is nothing more than a vendetta against my client. Why not settle the issue on a fair note for both sides and spare yourself and your children the embarrassment of having the intimate details of your lives splashed all over Page Six? By all accounts we've heard, you are a very private person, so why then does the money matter so much to you? And what do you think that speaks to in terms of the other allegations you've made against my client, which, conveniently for you, cannot be corroborated by any third party or outside witness."
"It means," Miranda spoke evenly although her eyes spit blue fire in Stephen's direction before turning back with a cold and dangerous glare to the balding man. "That we do not negotiate with terrorists."
Pairing: Andy/Miranda
Rating: M
Disclaimer: Yes, they are mine. I own them. Come to me my pretties and dance, DANCE I SAY. Or, more truthfully, not...
Chapter 32: This Way Comes
'Dun-Dun!' (Law & Order: SVU bell sound plays)
She's back! Court is in session, but who has the ball? Okay, that's about as far as my sports analogies go. (Yay team, win the ball, score the net!) Here is the latest installment - and I will disclaim now, that as much as I binge-watch L&O and may believe otherwise, I am not a lawyer & am aware there are many inconsistencies in my writing of this court scene, the focus is more on the interpersonal nature of the events taking place. That being said, I hope you enjoy! xx
P.s. Two of you I KNOW will/are read/reading this, owe me a great deal in backlogged prompts and/or updates. I expect payment! ;)
...
"You haven't been this sick in a while." Andrea remarked the morning of the next stage of the trial.
Today, arguments would begin regarding motive and the circumstances around Miranda's assault. This meant the jury would be privy to every piece of dirty laundry Stephen decided to air in front of them. And she could only imagine what they would be. At least her girls were away from all this madness. She knew her ex-husband would keep them away from the papers, and to the best of his ability, off of the internet; although she held little hope for that request. They were her children after all, and as such were not to be denied something when they believed in their right to it.
The emergency doctor from the night of the attack would be in court to testify as well. Stephen had previously stated Miranda had wanted to get back together and told him she was pregnant prior to being attacked. But both Miranda and Andrea knew that Miranda had had no idea of her condition before being told in the hospital after receiving treatment that may have otherwise been withheld had she responded positively, or even semi-positively to the standard policy question of whether there was any possibility she could be pregnant. And at 49 and single, Miranda's response had been a decidedly firm 'no'.
"I think it's nerves," Miranda gasped hoarsely before she turned to the bowl again, and shuddering, pitched forward as the muscles in her stomach contracted violently. But there was nothing left to come up, so she spent the next thirty seconds dry-heaving until she could once again regain control, due in significant part to the circles Andrea was rubbing on her back and the cool cloth she had draped over the back of Miranda's neck that stopped the sickly flush from spreading to her face again.
"Alright," Andy said, helping Miranda to her feet, a steadying hand at her back as she washed her mouth out and reapplied her makeup where it had smeared or ran. "We have about twenty minutes before Roy arrives, let's go downstairs and you put your feet up while I put some tea in a thermos so you can drink it in the car on the way to the courthouse. We'll see if that settles your stomach…And you, my tiny, incorrigible darlings" she bent over to speak to Miranda's Anna Sui silk sheathed belly, "be good for mommy today, okay? No somersaults or making her sick while she's on the stand." Miranda smirked and smoothed a hand over the swell before rising up on her toes slightly for a kiss. "Mmm, I'm sure they'll listen," she murmured wryly as Andy picked up Miranda's heels from the floor and carried them for her as they went downstairs.
That particular edict had been made recently as Andy had been horrified to see Miranda come downstairs one morning in 3 and a half inch heels and very nearly pitch forward and down two flights if she hadn't had been able to grab the railing when she went down and simply swung forward and landed on her knees. After that, shoes had been banned on the stairs by a hysterical Andrea. She had tried to ban heels entirely but Miranda come back with a firm 'No', and the subject was dropped for the time being. Once Miranda hit her third trimester in two weeks though, Andy was putting her foot down. No more heels for the rest of the pregnancy and then until she was fully recovered from the birth.
As the cameras flashed outside of the courthouse, Andy realized that the images the paparazzi would have captured by the end of this trial and pregnancy would essentially constitute an entire baby album. And she had been so distracted by the various medical, legal and otherwise worrisome circumstances surrounding the pregnancy that aside from buying a few basic pieces in Paris during Fashion Week, nothing had been done really to prepare for the babies arrival. Nor had anything been done to document Miranda's pregnancy - no photo sessions or memory books, they hadn't even registered for the hypno-birth or Lamaze or whatever classes recommended by Dr. Jansen at the 16 week appointment.
Andy resolved then and there that the only documentation of Miranda's second pregnancy was NOT going to come from her despicable colleagues in the press. She would make sure Miranda felt as though this was something to celebrate rather than dread - because although she knew Miranda wanted the babies, she could see the other woman being cheated out of the joy she should be feeling by the looming fear of the TTTS diagnosis and the stress of the trial and worrying about Caroline and Cassidy - not to mention Irv making good on his threats to go to the board.
However it looked as though things were going to get worse before they got better. Their morning had already begun early with Miranda being ill. She had managed some of the tea in the car and Andy was using a large Prada tote to carry snacks and a bottled smoothie she had blended that morning but Miranda had been too queasy to drink. She highly doubted the older woman would eat anything in the courtroom or in view of any people, but perhaps there was a space they could find some privacy during the recesses and breaks in the proceedings. If not, Andy was going to insist on going back to the car and just having Roy circle the courthouse while Miranda ate something.
Unless called unexpectedly, Andy's role in the trial was over for the most part. Miranda, however would be subject to questioning by both Stephen's lawyer and any expert witnesses they called to the stand. The afternoon would see Stephen take his turn being questioned by Alex Cabot and listen to the questioning of the prosecution's witnesses, which included the intake doctor from the emergency room from the night of the attack, in addition to Dr. Jansen. The one snag they were expecting was the defense to point out that the allegations against Stephen through SVU had been made days after the attack, and that the initial outcry had been to a family member in the form of Sergeant Munch, even though Miranda and Andy weren't engaged at the time.
The press had, of course, once again turned out in full force, and there was a palpable tension they seemed to revel in as opposing sides took their respective places. Olivia and Munch had tagged along with Alex, who interpreted their curious glances and she stood, addressing the judge. "If your honor would allow for a few minutes more, Ms. Priestly will be present, you can confirm with security that she is in the building."
"Well then why isn't she present now? My client has the right to a fair and speedy trial."
"And my client has the right to use the ladies room." Alex countered sharply.
"Powdering her nose, no doubt," Stephen murmured under his breath, sitting to the side of his attorney.
"Mr. Tomlinson, I believe you'll find that's called morning sickness."
"But it's not morning anymore."
"Nice to see you've done your research regarding the development of your children, Mr. Tomlinson, considering your supposed concern for their welfare under the care of your ex-wife."
"Alright!" The judge broke in with a bang of her gavel, seeing the bailiff open the courtroom doors to let the two women through. "Since arguments have obviously already begun, court is now in session."
Alex walked forward to the imposing wooden desk and slid a piece of paper smoothly across the waxed top which the judge glanced at briefly and nodded, waiting until the blonde had returned to her seat to look over the top of her glasses at the crowded courtroom before speaking.
"As a clarification before we begin, given the unique circumstances of this case, and its continued infamy in the press, I have been authorized to make a statement regarding today's proceedings as it pertains to the subject matter being brought forward by the defense. By now, there has been significant coverage of Miranda Priestly's recent hospitalization and subsequent absence from work. In addition to exacerbating any medical issues, the stress of the trial has put Ms. Priestly in a very difficult situation and she's here today, as is undersigned in this doctor's note, under the permission and direct supervision of her doctor, who has been called here today as well to testify by the defense. Dr. Jansen you may take the stand."
The man sitting next to Stephen stood, and buttoning his suit jacket over a medium paunch that revealed a 50+ year physique that couldn't be hidden by a three thousand dollar suit and carefully styled and coloured hair, strolled to the front of the desk, beginning confidently and pleasantly - evidently trying to charm the attractive, intelligent older woman.
"Dr. Jansen, thank you for being here today and taking time out of your busy schedule. Would you be so kind as to expand on the details of Miranda Priestly's second pregnancy as you have observed over the last 5 months."
"Recent traumatic events have caused a psychological and physiological state of advanced distress and as such, aggravated certain conditions that may otherwise not have been a factor in the maintenance of the pregnancy. At 50 years old, Miranda was in a good state of physical health and as such was able to conceive naturally her second set of twins. However early on in the pregnancy, during the first trimester, she sustained serious injuries from an assault committed by her ex-husband - my apologies, allegedly committed by her ex-husband…"
"You keep talking about Miranda's health, and how well she takes care of herself as a testament to her current state of expectancy. But is it not true that pre-birth, the infants have been diagnosed with a serious congenital condition that more than 50% of the time results in birth defects and an even higher mortality rate in utero?
"Certainly, it takes two to tango, so to speak So if we're calling to question the conception, as is the case with congenital defects, then Mr. Priestly is as much to blame as Miranda is or more, as it's his DNA that decides the secondary chromosome."
The older man seemed unconcerned, waving off the facts as he continued to spin his scenario of a work-obsessed ex-wife, reluctant to part with any measure of their shared wealth or possessions, and using the excuse of an unviable pregnancy to manipulate divorce proceedings and sway the jury to a sympathy vote in the accusation of assault.
"The odds are highly suggestive that the affected fetuses Ms. Priestly is carrying will be either stillborn or with significant congenital defects. In fact, the latter is almost a certainty. Why then would an intelligent or rational woman go through with a pregnancy A) from a man she claims to hate and who she claims viciously assaulted her and B) is likely to end in the death of the infants, and as is clearly evident, a great physical toll on her own body, consequently taking a combined toll on a career largely based on physical aesthetic and appearance. There can only be one answer, and it is in fact quite simple. Strategy, using this situation as a series of complex bargaining chips so as to come out of this with the upper hand. So tell me Ms. Priestly, Is this the price you're willing to pay for the larger settlement in the divorce?" A picture of two TTTS affected fetuses flashed back onto the screen, their features distorted and grossly exaggerated in death as they lay on the green cloth backdrop of the surgeon's tray.
"Mr. Carlson, that is quite enough!" The judge and Dr. Jansen looked livid as they stared down the cocky older gentleman holding the remote in his hand.
Andy tore her eyes away from the images on the screen to find Miranda, her own eyes shut tightly and a muscle jumping in her cheek as she tried to slow her racing pulse.
Miranda slowly lowered a trembling hand from her mouth, looking pointedly sideways and down so that neither Stephen or his lawyer could see the stubborn moisture in her eyes.
"Alright, clear the court. I'm calling for a 10 minute recess, we resume with Mr. Tomlinson's testimony and cross examination at 9:50 people so don't go far." She turned to Miranda, "Ms. Priestly would you like to step down and get some fresh air?"
At first, Miranda made a motion as though she were going to stand, but then quickly pressed a hand to her belly and lowered herself carefully back down until she was sitting again. "I don't think I can at the moment," she murmured, addressing Andrea as she barely permitted herself to admit it.
"Your Honor," Andy cut in. "Would it be possible for us instead to have the room to ourselves for a few minutes until the recess is over?"
The judge nodded, still looking concernedly at the off-colour of the older woman's face. "Alright, I'll let the door security know that no one is to be let back in until 9:47. A bailiff will have to remain with you though, Charles?" she nodded at an older black gentleman Andy hadn't noticed before, standing in the far corner where the defendants would be brought in if they were in custody.
"Yes, that's fine," Miranda replied hoarsely, her hand flicking out weakly in an impotent shadow of her typical persona.
Andy was up on the platform and by Miranda's side before the door had closed behind the judge. She ran her hand lightly along the older woman's thigh as she crouched beside her, waiting for Miranda to gather herself enough to speak, noting how the pale fingers on the hand not clutching hers in a death grip were wrapped to the point of bloodlessness around the edge of the chair. Her chest rose and fell as she moderated her breath, willing her heartbeat to slow and the lightheadedness to fade.
"Andrea, I-I don't feel well."
Andy's stomach dropped and she became acutely aware of her own pulse as she knelt there beside her almost-wife, barely noticing as Dr. Jansen re-entered the courtroom, crossing over to them and unscrewing the cap from a bottle of water as she approached, offering it to Miranda.
"Miranda, breathe. Deep breaths, nice and slow. You're okay, you're fine," Dr. Jansen's voice was low and soothing as she encouraged Miranda to take small sips.
"Wh-what if this is all for nothing? What if they're nothing more than embryonic parasites that are simply growing and gaining in mass. What's to say either of them will be born viable?"
Dr. Jansen shook her head, "From the results of the amniocentesis where we were able to test for hormone levels, it's possible to extrapolate an average, expected rate of growth or development. Despite the difference in size and the expected accelerated or slowed development, both twins tested in the same range for hormone levels which tells us that the TTTS is not currently affecting the vital markers for standard development, which would also indicate a decrease or an anomaly in brain function or the proper development of the nervous system. If we were able to see the fetuses in the same way as Mr. Carlson's crude exhibition, they would not look deformed or disfigured. They would only appear to be different gestational ages, the difference of a few weeks."
Miranda drew in a shuddering breath and then another, focusing on the comforting pinch of Andrea's engagement ring against her fingers even as she refused to let go of her hand and on the warmth of the young woman's other hand as it rested protectively over her belly, feeling, Miranda knew, for any sign of cramping or contractions before moving to her lower back and rubbing gently, knowing how much tension the older woman was holding in her body.
ADA Cabot had returned as well at this point, and Detective Benson.
"Miranda, if you need to stop for today, I can ask for a recess until tomorrow," the blonde offered, slightly alarmed at the change in her client's pallor now that the room was empty and there were no judges or jury or reporters causing the need for a show befitting 'La Priestly'.
"But you should know," Olivia continued, "that the defense will be able to call you to the stand again if they make the appeal that they weren't able to ask all of their questions."
"No," Miranda replied hoarsely but firmly, breathing in very deliberately through her nose and out of her mouth before speaking again. "I want this over with today. I won't give him the chance to further perpetrate his assault on myself or my children by prolonging this farce."
"That last trick he pulled lost him major points with the jury," Alex offered bracingly. "He got his desired shock value, but it did more to vilify him than it did you."
"I wish you didn't have to do this. I forced you into this," Andy's eyes were filled with tears although she didn't let them fall. "It's hurting you, it's hurting the babies and making you sick."
"Shh, Andrea. Andrea, you were right. Darling, this is the right thing to do, no matter how hard. I want my girls, our girls, to believe in fighting for themselves. I want them to grow up with that self-worth."
"I can't stand sitting there. It feels like I'm watching you be attacked and I'm not doing anything to stop it."
"But you are…You are the one I look to in all of this and when I have to answer those awful questions, it's really you I'm speaking to Andrea. I could never, EVER divulge these sorts of things to strangers, to anybody really except for you. I can say these things without feeling like I'm being attacked all over again. Sweetheart, you protect me and take care of me in ways I never would have imagined possible. So don't belittle what you are to me, Andrea, because you are everything - and I .do this without you." Miranda was squeezing the younger woman's hand impossibly tight as the doors to the courtroom were opened once more and people started filing in.
"Mr. Priestly, my apologies, Mr. Tomlinson - an honest mistake your honor, although perhaps understandable given that the defendant obviously continues to view himself as such."
"Like hell!" Stephen snarled as his lawyer quickly stood, cutting off any further comment from his client with a loud "Objection!"
"And to what would your lawyer be objecting to on your behalf? The truth? That you are, for all intents and purposes despite being legally separated, still married to Miranda Priestly? Mr. Tomlinson this entire trial is proof positive that you believe you have still or have ever had some stake or claim to Miranda's wealth, property, the children you haven't filed custody for but claim to feel are in danger with Miranda - "
Miranda actually growled at this, although inaudible to anyone but Andrea who was sitting directly next to her and squeezing her hand tightly, making sure the older woman didn't do something rash and fire Alex for even bringing up the idea that Stephen could potentially file for custody, although she knew the blonde woman was really only calling his bluff.
"Even a claim to her body it would seem should you be found guilty of the charges filed against you for aggravated assault and attempted rape. So which is it, Mr. Tomlinson? Do you desire to continue a relationship with a woman you have described as a, and I quote, "frigid bitch and a hysterical, lunatic dyke?"
Stephen spluttered, "What? How did?..."
"Did you forget, Mr. Tomlinson, that anything you say during an interrogation or interview with the police is recorded in the case logs? If so, I certainly feel for So which is it, Mr. Tomlinson? Do you desire to continue a relationship with a woman you have described as a, and I quote, "frigid bitch and a hysterical, lunatic dyke?"
Stephen spluttered, "What? How did?..."
"Did you forget, Mr. Tomlinson, that anything you say during an interrogation or interview with the police is recorded in the case logs? If so, I certainly feel for your own legal clients - especially considering the fees your charge."
Stephen's face was very nearly purple as Alex calmy and cleanly eviscerated his arguments on the stand. The only options left available to him was to admit to criminal activities, or argue against himself that his activities were not criminal in nature, but a direct result of his own incompetence and lack of intelligence.
With the slightest and politest of smiles, Alex went on. "My original starting question, Mr. Tomlinson, was to have you confirm that this is in fact your signature on these papers regarding your prenuptial agreement with Ms. Priestly that she had drawn up at the time of your marriage that you willingly and knowingly signed, and which clearly state the retention of personal assets prior to the marriage and equal division of any property, goods or stocks for which both parties are listed as payees or owners."
Stephen switched tactics yet again, flashing a boyish charming smile at the jury, "I was in love - or I thought I was. I was under her spell, I would have signed anything she asked me to in the right set of garters."
But Alex was ready for him, "I didn't ask how weak your will was, Mr. Tomlinson, my question was how free. And unless you can provide more evidence and definitive proof of coercion, other than expensive lingerie or witchcraft - the audience tittered - "then the prenuptial agreement stands as does its release clause and addendum rendering any post-marital compensation or division of assets null and void in the case of adultery or criminal activities, both of which you appear to have broken."
"Objection, your Honor," Mr. Carlson called out once again. "My client has not been convicted of any criminal charges. The prosecution is poisoning the jury."
"Your Honor, the assault speaks to the nullification of Mr. Tomlinson's pre-marital agreement and therefore motive to commit the crime in question."
"Overruled, but move on quickly Ms. Cabot, I'm inclined to agree with Mr. Carlson on the prejudicial nature of the questions."
"Mr. Tomlinson, you claim to be acting in the best interests of your future children, but it would appear as though your lawyer is concurrently arguing the case for their termination or postulating on the futility of the decision to go through with the pregnancy despite the serious diagnosis -neither of which have anything to do with the assault charges levelled against you or the divorce proceedings between Miranda Priestly and yourself. So which is it Mr. Tomlinson? Are you legitimately concerned for the welfare of the fetuses or have your actions been part of a deliberate scheme to intimidate my client and coerce the jury to avoid prosecution?"
"Of course I'm concerned in the wellbeing of my children. Simply because I had no desire for more children at my age is hardly indicative of my feelings regarding a situation where they already exist."
Andy ground her teeth together. Despite the fact that the man was a complete boor, his career had lent him an a sense of eloquence and a mimicry of well-bred manners that the jury couldn't be faulted for believing upon first glance;
"In that case, why have the only occurrences where you have shown any direct interest in the health and wellbeing of your potential offspring been in the eye of the media or in this courtroom? Because there have been no documented requests for doctors or medical records, or any relevant information that a legitimately concerned father-to-be would be asking for."
"I didn't think she would be able to ignore me if my attempts were made in front of the media - they were my witness to the fact that I have grave misgivings in the ability of my soon to be ex-wife to safely carry my children and raise them thereafter. She hasn't even been parenting her own children these last few weeks. They've been staying with their father, and I have reason to believe that is a direct result of their own marked personal preference." He nodded at his own counsel, who stood with an evidence bag containing several papers that bore the Dalton School crest.
"Let it be noted that the defense would like to enter Exhibit C, proof of the Priestly twins' continued absence from school in the week preceding the Winter break; their current state of residency being with their biological father, Jeremy Priestly."
Now Miranda looked positively ill.
"The girls have been staying with their father while I've been indisposed. The media has also proved to be a major stressor and I wanted my girls away from that."
"How very noble…But, they left before your trip to Paris didn't they? - and your current medical issues didn't come to light until several days after your return to New York. How do you account for that stretch of time when they were supposed to be with you?"
"Objection! We are not here to argue Miranda's custody agreement regarding Caroline and Cassidy Priestly."
"Perhaps we should be considering their obvious preference to live apart from their primary guardian at this point in time."
"Objection!"
Andy ground her teeth together so firmly that Alex glanced sideways at the noise. But Andy was way past caring, it was all she could do not to strangle the smug little man preening in front of the jury and almost gleefully rubbing salt in a wound Andy knew firsthand to be gaping and raw.
"Watch yourself, Mr. Carlson! This is your last warning. Tread carefully here. I agree that the mental health and the happiness of the minors currently residing with Ms. Priestly speak to her capabilities as a parent, but as neither child is present or has indicated through their secondary guardian that they wish to challenge the custody agreement, no testimony can be given on their behalf that isn't wholly based on guesswork and hearsay."
"Should you consult with any child psychologist, as I have, you will find that jealousy over a new sibling is a very common reaction in children under the age of 12, especially when said siblings share the 'uniqueness' of being twins and were conceived by another man who is not their father."
"So you would say a significant part of their distress is based on the number and frequency of sexual partners you have had during their formative years."
"Objection! Relevance and, and complete speculation!"
"Granted. Mr Carlson, you have been warned repeatedly about your use of speculation regarding Caroline and Cassidy Priestly."
"Then, your Honor, the defense would like to call Caroline and Cassidy Priestly to the stand as material witnesses as well as their ability to confirm certain facts and timelines that have otherwise been deemed speculative by the prosecution."
"No!" Miranda's voice rang out jarringly, not a single person other than Andy ever having heard it sound as such. "You will not bring my children into this."
"For four years, they were our children, weren't they Mir?"
Miranda was shaking now, apoplectic and terrified out of her mind that her daughters would be drawn into this madness, forced to listen as their mother was torn apart in the public eye for her sexual history.
"You never had any claim to them, nor did you want any. You never showed a shred of interest in them until now when you believe they could be of use in saving you a few dollars. Do not drag my children into this, Stephen."
"Your honor, would you please instruct the prosecution to prevent their client from threatening mine?"
"Alright people, that's enough." The judge turned to Miranda with a muted but sympathetic set to her features."
"Although, I am loathe to do so, the defense has the right to question their choice of witness."
Although she was sitting, Andy could feel Miranda's body crumple under the weight and implication of the judge's words and she gripped Miranda's hand even more tightly, rubbing her thumb soothingly across the pulse point at Miranda's wrist subtly reminding her to breathe and regulate her heartbeat.
Both women also registered a disgusted scoff from behind them as Dr. Jansen and Detective Benson reacted to the judge's ruling.
"Ms. Priestly, what is the earliest date you can present the minors in question?"
Lightheadedness slowly fading at Andrea's touch, Miranda answered clearly, letting no quaver escape the cool set of her vocal timbre. "My girls are with their father at present, they'll be returning to the city late on Sunday."
"Can't you call them back sooner?"
"Mr. Priestly, although you are entitled to a speedy trial, I think we can let the children enjoy their last few days of vacation with their father. Ms. Priestly, you are so ordered to produce the minors Caroline and Cassidy Priestly for questioning at 9 am Monday morning. Questioning will now resume with the next witness.
"The defense calls Dr. Aubrey Jansen to the stand. Dr. Jansen is an accredited OB-GYN who graduated with honors from Stanford and who has published several scientific articles regarding the causes and treatment of pregnancy-induced blood pressure disorders." Stephen's lawyer bowed his head respectfully in her direction as he gave her background.
"Dr. Jansen, according to the medical records attained from emergency and urgent care the last two times Miranda has been admitted, what was Ms. Priestly found to be suffering from?
"And it is true, is it not, that the Priestly twins in question have been diagnosed with a serious and often fatal disorder of the nervous system - exacerbated by high blood pressure and stress? Wouldn't you say these are the actions of a woman who cares more about her financial values rather than family values?
"Absolutely not."
"The court has just seen the tragic and unfortunately all too common end of these cases."
"The images you just forced on the jury were clearly displaying symptoms that ranged from a late stage 3 to a 4 or even a 5 score on the Quintero scale. Had you bothered to fully read or were able to comprehend my notes you would have seen that Miranda's condition is placeable in the early second stage of the disease."
"But it is possible for that diagnosis to change? I understand Ms. Priestly's recent hospitalization and the reasons behind it may have exacerbated any underlying conditions."
"So there is no guarantee of a healthy delivery."
"There never is. Not in any scenario."
"But we can agree, the risks are drastically heightened."
"Move on, Mr. Carlson."
"Of course, your Honor. Nothing further"
"Dr. Jansen, you may step down."
Alex Cabot stepped out onto the floor, crossing deliberately to the middle of the room as Miranda was called once more.
"Miranda, I appreciate you taking the time to be here today when I know you have taken the limiting of your work schedule seriously, so I will be brief. Is this pregnancy part of an overall plan to force Stephen Tomlinson's hand in signing the divorce papers?"
"No," Miranda replied coldly, now completely recovered from her earlier shakiness and strengthened by her fury at the indignity of being made to explain her decisions and actions regarding her personal life to a group of strangers. After a long moment of silence though, Andy recognized a familiar glint in the blue eyes that caused her legs to clench together and the butterflies in her stomach to dissolve into coiling tendrils of smoke.
"I have no need for Stephen's money. Only for his absence from my life and that of my children without incident or fuss. It is true that Stephen does well for himself financially, however if one were to be so tawdry as to compare, or point out who in the relationship could be considered 'kept', it would most certainly be him."
A choked noise came from Stephen's side of the courtroom but Andy didn't take her eyes off the 'Dragon Lady' in full force.
"What I earn annually, excluding bonus structures outstrips his salary more than three times. I can only assume that's why he came to the townhouse that night. His demeanour, while drunk and sloppy was docile enough until the subject of money came up. Whether or not he thought he could charm me into ignoring the clause in the prenuptial agreement that he freely and willingly signed."
"And what clause is that?"
"It states that if either partner is found to be unfaithful then the splitting of assets and the payment of alimony was rendered null."
Finally, Miranda faced Stephen, meeting him squarely in the eye as she raised her own eyebrow coolly.
"I do hope she was worth the millions you've given up, Stephen."
Andy's nails actually made indents in the wooden bench as her body shook with her response to the wicked grin Miranda let slip for a moment, so that only Stephen as the only looking directly at her could see it.
Stephen's howl of fury was the only thing that stifled her own somewhat violent response as her body shuddered through an orgasm.
This was no weepy, clingy or uncertain battered wife. Not that Andy didn't adore her through every mood, okay - almost every mood. This was Miranda Priestly, Dragon Lady of New York and Icy Queen of the fashion and publishing world, and dear Lord, was it hot.
The entire courtroom tittered, and even the judge was doing a poor job of hiding her smirk behind a copy of the prenuptial agreement she had been presented with as part of evidence. Stephen's face grew redder and redder as Miranda spoke, furious that the tearful woman from before had disappeared. Finally, when Miranda had to pause for the final bursts of laughter or talk to subsist, Stephen exploded.
"You bitch," he snarled under his breath, catching Miranda's eye and avoiding the judge's before turning to his lawyer. "Do something, George? Are you going to let her talk to me like that, on record? In front of the whole court? Object! Do you not have the balls to do it? Then I will. Objection!"
"Mr. Pr-Tomlinson!" the judge replied sharply and Stephen's face turned an alarming shade of puce. "You cannot call your own objections. That being said, the plaintiff will refrain from addressing the defendant directly and vice versa from this point forward. I'll not have my courtroom turned into more of a circus than the media have already done."
Stephen turned pointedly back to his lawyer, making no effort to whisper as he instructed his counsel. "Ask her when she started fucking her 'Girl Friday'. God, that's all I heard around the house, 'Andrea this, Andrea that - calling at all hours of the night. You can sure as hell bet that 'relationship' pre-dates any so called 'assault' - what is on me is not realizing she was a dyke long before that. Those 'Ice Queen' nicknames the press write might as well have been about our sex life."
"Mr. Carlson, control your client! Mr. Tomlinson, I've had enough of this. Unless you can provide concrete proof of a relationship prior to the second attempt at filing for divorce, then as of yet, nothing you have brought to me suggests any reason to ignore the nullifying clause in the prenuptial agreement. Any concerns you might have of a custodial nature may be brought up in a separate trial should you choose to pursue that complaint. Final arguments regarding the charges of assault and attempted set against you will begin next Monday following the testimony of Caroline and Cassidy Priestly.
"Your Honor," the balding counselor interrupted, "I have one more question for the plaintiff."
"Proceed then, Mr. Carlson, but make it quick."
"Of course, your Honor. Ms. Priestly, one final question regarding your behaviour in the admittedly drawn out proceedings of your divorce settlement. If you were truthful, as I have no doubt, in stating that your earnings far outstrip my clients, why have you fought so viciously against amicable negotiations in the settlement. If you are so truly and genuinely concerned about the safety and wellbeing of your children, two of whom were conceived during consensual sex with the man you are now accusing of rape, why then if you could afford to do otherwise, would you put yourself and your children through the stress and rigors of two concurrent legal battles if not for the purpose of leveraging one over the other in an act that is nothing more than a vendetta against my client. Why not settle the issue on a fair note for both sides and spare yourself and your children the embarrassment of having the intimate details of your lives splashed all over Page Six? By all accounts we've heard, you are a very private person, so why then does the money matter so much to you? And what do you think that speaks to in terms of the other allegations you've made against my client, which, conveniently for you, cannot be corroborated by any third party or outside witness."
"It means," Miranda spoke evenly although her eyes spit blue fire in Stephen's direction before turning back with a cold and dangerous glare to the balding man. "That we do not negotiate with terrorists."