Chapter 14 - The Shadowed Depths
As the trial date approached, pressure mounted on the defense team. Realizing that the navigation camera video was ironclad proof, Mercer's high-priced lawyers attempted a desperate legal maneuver. They filed a motion to suppress the video evidence, claiming it was recorded illegally without a commercial permit in federal waters.
The news sent shockwaves through the legal team. If the video was thrown out, the prosecution would have to rely heavily on Mateo's testimony, exposing the twelve-year-old to aggressive cross-examination by defense attorneys.
That evening, Rafael found Mateo sitting on the deck of the Sea Star, looking out at the darkened harbor lights.
"Are you worried, son?" Rafael asked, sitting beside him and handing him a cup of warm cocoa.
"What if the judge says the video doesn't count, Dad?" Mateo asked quietly. "What if those bad people get away because I'm just a kid?"
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Rafael placed a strong, weathered hand on his son's shoulder. "Listen to me, Mateo. A camera only records light. Truth comes from inside you. You heard what you heard because you were paying attention. You acted with courage when everyone called you crazy. No lawyer in an expensive suit can take away what you know is right."
Mateo took a sip of cocoa and nodded firmly. "I'm not afraid, Dad. I'll tell the jury the truth."
