67 Crushing Defea (1/2)

Regardless of the new changes in her life, Allison returns to work as soon as she is able.

This is because of my little copyright problem.

Allison wants to close the case to my satisfaction.

Only then, she will be able to take on more clients without worrying too much about anything else.

It shouldn't take much effort, considering that I have already laid out the foundation for her.

Most of the seniors from the firm already figure out the hidden message, since they are just that good at noticing things. And because they are unsure which of them have figured it out first, none of them request for the rewards.

It isn't like they are lacking in money.

Aside from their very generous salary, the firm provides everything and much more. It takes good care of its employee and severely punishes anyone who dare to violate its policy and integrity.

Like every subsidiary belonging to Chrono Holdings, if you are a professional, then you will be treated like a professional.

There can be no bullshits at the workplace.

I have learnt a hard lesson that any kind of bullshits open rooms for more bullshits. Being considerate and nice to people will allow them to walk all over you.

”Good morning, Mr. Maxwell.”

Allison greets me at the courthouse.

Although it is unnecessary for me to be here, I still want to attend to give her my support.

Didn't believe that?

Heh. You're right.

Why the hell would I do such a thing even if she is related to me.

And Allison doesn't need my support since she knows she is going to win.

I am here for another reason. A much more fun reason.

Her old boss, Mr. Simmons is no longer with her as he has his own clients to attend to.

Allison has a new assistant now, considering her current position at the firm. She isn't the youngest to make senior, but she is still very young. Most seniors get there when they are in their thirties.

It is just not that easy to make senior at the firm, let alone partners. Partners are people of the inner circles, having the power to command Hydra and its division. They only take care of things when there no other options, at least legally.

”Please, we are more than just friends, Allison. Call me Max.”

I response with a smile. We did have sex several times already, so we should be on first name basis.

Allison blushes lightly before heading into the courtroom with me. The judge is not there yet since it is not time.

However, the other party is already there along with a few spectators.

Allison greets the other lawyer, and the man did the same. It is just common courtesy.

”Good morning, Mr. Crichton. Have you given another thought to my offer? It is still stand.”

I greet the man.

This is the second time I have talked to him. The first time is just before the preliminary hearing. I only give him the offer since I feel somewhat guilty for stealing his work.

Unfortunately, Michael Crichton is a very proud person. He despises those who dare to claim his work as their own, so for someone like me, who steals his work – well, you can guess.

Furthermore, he has won every case against him, making his confidence through the roof. He believes that this will be the same.

There is no reason to doubt it otherwise.

”I have already told you what I think of your offer. No amount of money or compensation is adequate for what you did. You think you can steal my work and claim it as your own? I don't know how you did it, but I will see to it that you will never be able to publish anything ever again!”

Michael Crichton tells me. He is about to say more, but his lawyer stops him.

”That is very harsh, Mr. Crichton. In that case, I will withdraw my offer. You will find that this is one of those moments in your life that you wish you have a second chance. Well, third chance. Let's us fight it out in court, huh? It shouldn't be too long.”

I response and sit down next to Allison. I give her a smile. She reciprocates before passing me a small handwritten note, asking whether I am free this evening.

What are we? Schoolkids?

I draw a smiley face and pass it back to her before chilling until the judge and the jury arrives. I didn't bother to buy out the jury. I could totally do that, but it is pointless.

”Good morning, everyone. I see that both Mr. Crichton and Mr. Maxwell is here for the case. I did not see any of them during the preliminary hearing. I have reviewed the case and I have found everything is in order. Is there any other document or item either party wish to enter into exhibit?”

The judge asks once he takes his seat.

”No, your honor.”

Allison and the other lawyer answer. I didn't need to do anything but sit there and look pretty.

I did scan around the room and notice Sandra Bullock is presented in the courtroom.

Sandra should be at the auditoriums, working with the stage crew and practicing her acting skills, but I guess she take this morning off to come and give me some support.

Everyone knows about the company being sued for theft. They hope that it won't affect the company in anyway.

They like working for Terra Entertainment since the salaries and bonuses are very generous.

Sharon Stone has taken the lead in Sleepless in Seattle. It is currently being filmed alongside with The Fugitive and Speed around Los Angeles. I don't need to attend the filming, but I do drop by to see how my actresses are doing.

Halle is happy to see me. Sharon is not so much. Sandra is too much. Jennifer is missing in action.

Maybe I should gather more actresses when this is over.

Even if there are no movies or serial television shows for them at the moment, they can use the time to get familiar with the company and its working.

”Ahem. Let's begin.”

The judge tells everyone before outlining what the case is about. He gestures at me when referring to Terra Entertainment and Mr. Crichton when referring to Mr. Crichton.

Since it a straight forward case since every pieces of item are documented and notarized, giving them authenticity.

”Is there anything else to add?”

The judge asks.

”If I may, your honor. Mr. Crichton has claimed that my client, Terra Entertainment has stolen his work and published it under the alias M.C. However, I wish to contest this and prove to you, your honor and everyone present that it is in fact it is Mr. Crichton that is in the wrong.”

Allison speaks up.