“You told me that came from your commercial commission,” Serena said in a tight, sharp whisper across the table.

“Quiet, Serena,” Julian muttered, staring straight at the judge’s bench.

“The bank has placed an immediate hold on that item under asset recovery rules,” Melissa said.

Judge Callahan noted the exhibit number on his legal pad before turning to Julian’s lawyer.

“Does the defense wish to cross-examine the bank investigator?” the judge asked.

“Not at this time, Your Honor,” the lawyer said.

“We would like to call Elena Moreno to the stand.”