But Maya wasn't done yet. The cross-examination had revealed the cracks in the prosecution's case. Now it was time to blow it wide open.
During the recess, the courthouse hallways buzzed with frenzied energy. Reporters thrust microphones at anyone who emerged from the courtroom. Legal analysts debated on live television. The security footage Maya had uncovered was playing on every news channel.
Maya sat in a quiet corner with her father, sharing a vending machine sandwich. Despite everything, they found comfort in this simple moment together.
"Maya," Marcus said softly, "whatever happens, I need you to know how proud—"
"Save the speech for after we win, Daddy." She squeezed his hand. "We're not done yet."
Crawford approached them, his earlier arrogance replaced by desperation. "Listen, kid... Miss Thompson. Maybe we can work out a deal. Reduced charges, time served."
"No deals," Maya said flatly. "You tried to destroy my father. Now I'm going to destroy your case."
"You got lucky with Hutchinson. You won't—"
"Luck?" Maya laughed, but there was no humor in it. "I have signed affidavits from three other janitors stating Richard Whitmore has been pressuring them to spy on rival firms. I have emails between Whitmore and Hutchinson discussing the October operation. I have evidence of six similar frame jobs over the past five years, all targeting employees who refused to participate in corporate espionage."
Crawford's face went white. "How could you possibly..."
"Because while you were planning your victory party, I was doing what lawyers are supposed to do: seeking the truth."
When court reconvened, Judge Whitmore looked haggard. The weight of her family name, her nephew's corruption, and the spectacular collapse of what should have been a simple case pressed on her shoulders.
"Miss Thompson," she began, "while your cross-examination raised serious questions, the prosecution still has the right to present its full case."
"Actually, Your Honor," Maya stood, "I'd like to call a witness for the defense."
"This is still the prosecution's case-in-chief!" Crawford protested.