It was the last day of the trial and the media frenzy was showing no signs of abating. It had reached fever pitch following the testimony from Texas against her former husband and this of course had been her plan. She had delivered the performance of a lifetime and not only damaged Burke’s reputation even more but had also raised her public profile again. She was now the talk of every internet gossip column and the darling of the tabloid press. Texas felt adored and she loved every minute of it much to the disdain of her daughter Fathom. Burke meanwhile was focused on clearing his name and wanted to do it on his terms. This meant not cross examining his ex-wife for to do so, he believed, would be to play straight into her hands. He would not get drawn into some media circus battle with her and nor would he allow his attorney Andre Wayward  to cross examine Heathen when he was forced to take the stand for the prosecution. It pained Burke to see his son suffer so and he would not permit any further questioning of him much to the chagrin of Andre.

Outside the court house, roving reporter Dick Stroker was once again reporting live on the court case that was making him a tv sensation.

Inside the courtroom prosecutor Ann Thrax had been grilling Burke for almost an hour on the witness stand. Andre Wayward had tried to talk Burke out of taking the stand but Burke insisted upon it as the only way he could prove his innocence. But so far it was not going well for Burke.

Ann Thrax was a top notch lawyer with a reputation of a viper. She’s been known to grind down the hardest of criminals and had only ever lost one case in her entire career. There was no way she was going to let billionaire Burke Simmington get away with this crime.

Burke was getting restless as Ann kept going over and over the same accusation. It would only be a matter of time until his anger would spill out.

Texas sat glaring daggers at her ex-husband from across the courtroom.

There was an audible gasp from the spectators in the courtroom as billionaire Burke Simmington all but admitted that he had in fact administered a beating on his former groundsman as Texas had said. Would this admission go against him in this case? His wife Brystle thought so. As did his lawyer Andre Wayward. He knew Burke to be volatile and this was why he had wanted to keep him from taking the stand.

Judge Doodie ,however, disagreed.

Ann Thrax acknowledged the judge with a nod before raising her voice as she directed a forceful statement at Burke in an effort to rattle him. Which it did… 

Fathom felt helpless as she watched her father react to this questioning  on the witness stand. It was quite clear Ann’s tactics were getting the better of  Burke.

Burke took a deep breath to calm his thoughts and his voice. He could see what that Ann was trying to rattle him and he needed to calm down. Eventually he spoke in a calm collected way.

When she saw that Burke was not responding in the manner she hoped Ann decided upon a different approach to break him.

This was new information in the courtroom as Burke had never revealed publicly what Fred had told him which then resulted in their physical altercation.

Burke stared directly at Cyril Dolby as he spoke and Cyril stared back as he considered inwardly what Burke had just said.

Around the courtroom those closest to Burke had their own thoughts and opinions about what was being revealed about Fred.

Tammy Flo could see that Heathen was hurting through all of this and did her best to console him.

The truth was Heathen still loved Fred despite of everything he was hearing and it was killing him inside.

Ann continued grilling Burke for close to another hour by which time he looked exhausted and beaten. She knew she had the jury convinced of his guilt and it was time to wrap things up.

Ann rested her palms on the witness stand and leaned close to Burke as she spoke.

Burke was silent. He was exhausted and felt that he was beaten. He could say no more.

Ann stepped away and Judge Doodie excused Burke from the witness stand. Burke stood and looked over at his family as he took his seat. He felt dejected when he saw the look on each of their faces for it looked to them that he was indeed guilty of killing Fred Rimmard….

Burke felt dejected and humiliated as he  took a seat next to his lawyer Andre Wayward. Luckily Andre had received a text during Burke’s testimony from someone willing to testify for them. But t could be risky. Nevertheless Andre felt it was the only shot they had to convince the jury of Burke’s innocence. 

Burke could not believe what he was hearing. Was Andre seriously considering putting Fred’s mother on the stand to testify for them??

Burke had not time to respond as Devonique made her entrance into the courtroom. All eyes were on her as she confidently strutted to the witness box. Journalists from the press who were allowed into the courtroom were frantically updating their social media websites with the latest revelations.

Andre walked towards Devonique to swear her in. 

Devonique paused as she reflected on how things had worked out with her son. 

Devonique’s moving testimony pained Burke to hear.

Devonique glanced over towards Heathen and gave him a reassuring and comforting smile. Heathen felt tears building in his eyes and he lowered his head. 

Devonique glared straight ahead at Texas as she made her statement and there were a few chuckles around the courtroom. Even Judge Doodie found herself trying not to laugh. She  quickly banged her gavel to regain order of the courtroom.

Once the laughter had died down Andre continued. 

Andre nodded and then turned to Judge Doodie to explain what Devonique was referring to.

There was a collective gasp and audible mutterings from the court at what Devonique had just testified. The mother of the deceased victim was stating that his death was an accident and nothing more. 

A stunned Seth couldn’t believe what he was hearing. 

Andre was satisfied with this. The mother of the victim had all but removed any blame from Burke. There was no way the jury would convict him now.

No further witnesses were presented and so both lawyers concluded with their summary to the jury. First up was prosecutor Ann Thrax.

Next up was Andre Wayward. This was his final chance to convince the jury of Burke’s innocence.

And that ended the case for the defence. It was up the jury to decide now and Judge Doodie dismissed them to deliberate on the verdict. Court was adjourned but less than an hour passed and the jury had already decided. Everyone was recalled back in. Burke and Andre were asked to stand as Judge Doodie turned to the foreman of the jury.

There was an eruption of cheers in support of Burke as the verdict was announced. And there were some who could not believe the ruling. However Burke and Andre were ecstatically relieved with the news. 

Cyril said nothing to his fiancée as she raged at the ruling. For he knew it was his dealings with bribing certain jury members that returned the verdict he wanted. 

Prosecutor Ann Thrax was stunned when the verdict was delivered for she thought she had this one in the bag. 

As everyone stood as Judge Doodie stepped down from her chair Burke glanced back and smiled at his wife for the first time since the court case had begun. 

Burke rushed forward and embraced Brystle tightly in his arms. He had truly missed her. 

Fathom grabbed hold of her father and Burke hugged his daughter. If he noticed Brystle’s sudden unease upon the mention of secrets he certainly did not give anything away. 

One person not hanging around for the congratulations was Devonique. She had done her part, delivering the truth and helping to set Burke free. But in the end, her son was still dead. So, for now, she needed to be alone. But only for a little while for Devonique had something else in store for the Simmingtons…

 Later, to avoid the crowds of press and paparazzi waiting outside the courtroom, Burke and Brystle made to leave by a secret rear exit. Heathen was already there as he had wanted a moment alone to deal with the outcome of the trial.

Heathen looked at Burke awkwardly. He’d barely spoken a word to Burke since his father’s arrest and subsequent incarceration due to his parole being denied. The last time they’d had any one on one interaction was the night at the opera when he’d found Fred at lying dead at the bottom of the stairs and Burke staring down at him. Heathen accused his father of killing his husband. Even with Burke’s acquittal and Fred’s death deemed accidental, it was hard for Heathen to accept. And then there was the question of paternity hanging over them…

Burke could see how fragile he son looked. He looked to Brystle who understood and stepped aside as Burke approached his son. 

The thought of Cyril Dolby being Heathen’s father was too distressing to comprehend for Burke. 

Weeks upon weeks of bottled up rage and grief erupted from Heathen and he flung his arms up in anger as he yelled.

Burke nodded as he listened to his son’s anguish. He wanted to assure him that everything would work out in the end and began to gently break it to him unaware that Texas had quietly joined them from the courtroom. 

Burke’s anger immediately rose at the sound of his ex-wife’s voice and he spun around to face her. 

Heathen stomped past them as he made his exit down the stairs. Burke was furious with Texas for interrupting his talk with Heathen and subsequently upsetting the young man even further. 

Brystle had had enough of  this bickering between the former spouses and she stepped forward to take charge before it erupted into a full scale war between them all. 

Texas gave Brystle another one of her triumphant smirks. It gave Texas pleasure to constantly belittle her and her well timed put down lightened her mood. She looked from husband to wife and remembered that she had a plan to bring to fruition. 

With her high heels clicking on the marble floor, Texas marched off. Burke his head but said nothing as he took Brystle gently by the arm and led her downstairs and out to the waiting limo. 

That evening back at the mansion just before dinner, Burke and Brystle were having a moment alone in the study. 

Brystle brace herself for what was to come. As it turned out, it was not what she was expecting…

Brystle was seeing a different side to her husband. He was showing vulnerability, a trait he had never shown before. And realising that her doubts she had experienced earlier in the court room about Burke were suddenly fading. Burke never admitted he was wrong. 

Brystle was so relieved to hear Burke say this. Mayhew had been an innocent bystander, sent away to work overseas by Burke to keep him from seeing Brystle. He’d been framed on a charge of spying and as an employee of Burke’s this had lost him the contract at WindenburgSimmington for the South Shang Simla Sea Leases. This was a billion Simoleon contract and Cyril Dolby had wanted it all along. Framing Mayhew was his unscrupulous way of obtaining it. 

This was a relief for Brystle to hear. However there were other pressing matters on her mind, issues that had come to light that night several months ago at the opera that’d never been addressed. 

Just as they were getting down to some serious smooching, there was a polite knock at the door and in walked major-domo Joseph Flanders. 

What could this mean?

Joseph showed Devonique into the study before leaving and closing the doors quietly behind him. 

Burke eyed the woman in front of him. He didn’t appreciate the mention of his lost son Badam. That was a private family matter.

CREDITS:

For this episode of Simasty, I was again inspired by the original court case from season 1 & 2 of Dynasty where Blake Carrington was on trial over the death of Ted Dinard. For the reveal of Devonique as Burke’s sister, that was from an episode in season 5 where Dominque revealed she was Blake’s sister. 

Siloli Mansion  is my own version of Filoli, the real life house used as the Carrington residence in the original Dynasty. 

I used a lot of CC poses throughout this episode. 3 particular talented artists I use a lot are 

https://katverse.com/

https://joanneberniceposes.weebly.com

http://www.sims4studio.com/thread/4220/sims-4-cc-princess-paranoia

CC clothing featured:

Brystle’s blue evening dress by DarkNighTt available at: https://www.thesimsresource.com/downloads/1318727

Brystle’s court outfit by SLYD at: https://www.thesimsresource.com/downloads/1337161

Long painted nails by S-Club at: https://www.thesimsresource.com/downloads/1450200

Devonique’s jacket by belal1997 at : https://www.thesimsresource.com/downloads/1468541

Devonique’s jumpsuit by Jonsims at : https://www.thesimsresource.com/downloads/1460467

Devonique’s trousers by ekinege at: https://www.thesimsresource.com/downloads/1493608

Devoniqe’s hat by Elfdor at : https://www.simsdom.com/downloads/151583/hat-tiffany-sims4

High heel shoes by Malden at : https://thesimsresource.com/artists/MJ95

Seth’s suit by Darte77 at : https://darte77.blogspot.com/

Texas’s outfit by Sifix at :https://www.thesimsresource.com/downloads/1467557

Courthouse used for exterior shots only by Azulsims01 :

https://www.ea.com/en-gb/games/the-sims/the-sims-4/pc/gallery/AF8A20E0126C11E786DAFD6CB19685FA?category=lots&searchtype=ea_origin_id&sortby=newest&time=all&searchquery=azulsims01&max=50&maxis=false

Courtroom wall panelling by Peacemaker at :

https://peacemaker-ic.tumblr.com/post/179959123501/splendid-panelling-three-new-painted-wall-styles

Several days into Burke’s trial and the media circus surrounding it showed no sign of abating. Coverage of it was spread around the known Sims world from Pleasantview to Brindleton Bay. News channels, magazines and online gossip columns couldn’t get enough of the trial of the head of one of the richest families in the world, Burke Simmington. Accused of simslaughter of his son’s conman husband, Burke was facing an uncertain future. As the trial began it’s third day, news reporters were once again outside the courthouse.

Fathom and Seth were indeed just arriving for the day’s hearing. Fathom winced when she caught sight of the reporter and tv crew.

Seth kept hold of his wife’s hand as he led her through the throng.

Fathom and Seth ignored the questions and made their way past. At the top of the steps outside the courthouse Fathom gathered herself after the onslaught she had just endured. Seth meanwhile had a question for his wife.

Seth’s question made Fathom slightly uncomfortable. She didn’t want to get into this in such a public way in front of the reporters and cameras so she went inside. Once in the hallway of the building she told Seth just how she felt.

Seth could see that he had clearly rattled his new wife and this was not what he had intended.

Fathom knew she had a reputation. One that was indeed valid for she had yet to give up her flirtatious ways. As Seth was skirting around an issue she didn’t want to address she as usual went on the defensive.

It was more than a slip of the tongue for Fathom had already made a fool out of Seth the whole time they had got back together. Many, many times as the newest recruits to her father’s football team would testify. She quickly turned and made her way towards the courtroom leaving Seth feeling unsure about how she felt about him.

Outside the courthouse, reporter Dick Stroker was wrapping up his live news report.

The day’s session had begun. The courtroom was packed. Brystle Simmington sat in the front row behind her husband. The trial was taking it’s toll on her. Being in a courtroom environment had reminded Brystle of her own trial several years past before she had met Burke. It hadn’t been a good period in her life and it had resulted in her being sent to prison for something she didn’t commit. She and Burke still had not talked about her experience and there was so much she needed to tell him but now she was worried that she may never get he chance.

Joining Brystle was her niece Tammy Flo who looked like she was having a ball on a day out. Next to her was Heathen who was finding the whole ordeal unbearable. Making up the crowd of spectators was Fathom and Seth. Unbeknown to all of them was Cyril Dolby, Burke’s arch enemy, had taken a seat discreetly at the back of the packed courtroom. He silently watched as the drama played out as he had been expecting…

After everyone stood as Judge Doodie entered the room the trial’s 3rd day got under way. Called to the witness stand was Michael Constrain and he was a witness for the prosecution. Ann Thrax, the prosecuting lawyer, approached her client.

Michael ran a finger under his shirt collar as it had suddenly begun to feel very tight as he testified against his boss.

Michael paused. He felt all eyes on him, including Fathom’s. And then he saw the look Seth Dolby was throwing his way and it reminded him how much he hated the rich playboy for taking Fathom away from him.

As Michael gave his testimony, an outraged Seth whispered angrily to Fathom about what he had just heard. Fathom however kept looking across the room at Michael.

Fathom knew what was coming next and inwardly she was urging Michael not to go through with this.

For all her bravado and her recklessness with how she treated people, Fathom was feeling both sad and betrayed. Sad for how she had made Michael feel and betrayed that he was testifying against her father. And that betrayal was outweighing anything else she was feeling..

Burke whispered to his lawyer Andre Wayward as Ann Thrax continued her questioning of Michael.

As copies of the report were passed around Brystle was feeling more uncomfortable than ever. For in her heart she knew what Michael was saying was the truth.

Andre began his questioning with his trademark devil’s grin aiming to put Michael at ease. However, he knew the chauffeur of course and he also knew how to handle this. He believed Michael to be an idiot and he would poke holes in his claim to have him discredited as a witness.

Michael was taken aback by this for he had not expected his own problems to come to the surface. He meekly answered but was quickly cut off by Andre bellowing at him.

Michael looked around the room as if for help but realised he was on his own. He had no choice to tell the truth. His voice was quiet again as he answered but once again he was cut off by Andre.

Michael was floundering and prosecutor Ann Thrax saw this. She quickly leapt up.

Judge Doodie was a tough old bird even the most hardy of lawyers were afraid of. Reluctantly Ann took her seat allowing Michael to continue.

Michael took a deep breath to compose himself before looking Andre square in the eye.

Burke chuckled to himself after the verbal battering Andre had given Michael. Brystle watched on with disdain.

Hours were passing and the trial was progressing. Prosecution was ready to bring on their next star witness.

Mumblings galore went around the courtroom as this was the moment a lot of the spectators and the press had been waiting for as the billionaire’s ex-wife took the witness stand against her former husband.

The courtroom doors opened and in walked Texas dressed to kill in a blood red suit. She confidently marched towards the witness stand, smiling as she revelled in the obvious attention on her.

Fathom was furious that the mother she hated was about to have her moment of glory and refused to look at her as she walked by. From the back of the courtroom Cyril Dolby smiled to himself as he knew his lover had been waiting a long time to her moment.

Andre, whilst apprehensive about Texas taking the stand, was looking forward to cross examining her. However Burke had other ideas…

Andre was flabbergasted that he would be denied the chance to cross examine Texas but Burke was adamant. Meanwhile Texas had taken the stand.

Texas paused for a moment and scanned the courtroom. She had a captivated audience and she was going to revel in delivering her story.

Texas put her head in her hands and wept loudly.

Burke glared across the courtroom at his ex-wife. How dare she use the memory of their dead first child in some petty revenge against him he thought.

Texas dramatically wiped away her tears with a handkerchief before composing herself and continuing with her damning evidence.

Another round of mumblings and mutterings went around the courtroom. Judge Doodie called for order and then prosecutor Ann Thrax continued.

Fathom could not believe the audacity of her loathed mother. How dare she get up there and publicly lie about her father like this. Texas gave no indication of whether she noticed this or not and continued with her testimony.

Brystle was no dummy. She knew that Texas would lie on the stand and be overly dramatic with her testimony. However what she was saying struck her hard for it reminded her of something Mayhew had said before he had left for Shang Simla. He’d stated that Burke had deliberately promoted him just to send him overseas in an effort to keep Brystle and he apart. Mayhew had also stated the same thing- that Burke bought people off just to get his own way. Brystle had doubted this in the beginning but was now becoming more and more convinced that her husband had indeed done this.

Texas went full throttle with her acting at this point and her theatrics were totally over the top.

Ann Thrax was in her element. She had a witness who was giving the press exactly what they wanted. The courtroom was in total silence as everyone waited to hear what Texas would say next.

Burke Simmington, had just been publicly accused of murder by his ex-wife and the courtroom almost went into uproar. Judge Doodie furiously banged her gavel as a call to order. Andre leapt up to call his objection.

A deflated Andre sat down and Ann smirked triumphantly at her opponent. As the courtroom descended into silence once more Texas continued with her testimony.

It became too much for Brystle to listen to. The more she heard the more she was convinced of her husband’s guilt. This triggered a panic attack in her and she suddenly leapt up from her seat.

All eyes were on Brystle as the current Mrs Simmington fled the courtroom. Fathom couldn’t believe her father’s wife would abandon him in his moment of need and made a mental note to confront her about it as soon as she could. Andre looked over at Burke who had closed his eyes in shock. Texas of course had achieved her goal and she loved it. So long Brystle!!

Ann now moved her line of questioning onto the night of Fred’s death.

Heathen remained seated with his head lowered. He wanted to be anywhere but here. His husband was dead but had it even been a real marriage? And now his parents were at war again just like they were when he was a child. Heathen couldn’t bare it.

Judge Doodie almost split her desk in two as she repeatedly pounded her gavel in effort to gain order in her courtroom as the shockwaves went round for the umpteenth time. Burke looked on in horror.

Andre couldn’t take it anymore and insisted that Burke allow to cross examine Texas.

Andre was left dumbfounded. It was incredibly short sighted of Burke to let this opportunity to discredit Texas as a reliable witness pass. But perhaps Burke realised that Texas knew too much. Who knows what else she would say on that stand when prodded?

Texas’s testimony had been outrageous, over the top and dramatic. But Ann knew it had achieved exactly what she wanted. The damage had been done and there would be no coming back for Burke after this.

Andre slowly stood up and fidgeted uncomfortably. He couldn’t accept that he wasn’t getting the chance to annihilate Texas’s testimony.

As soon as Judge Doodie had dismissed the court, a furious Fathom leapt from her seat without a word to Seth and marched outside. She went stomping downstairs to where she found a sheepish Michael sat waiting.

Michael didn’t get a chance to speak. He looked up from the bench he was sitting on as Fathom unleashed her anger at him.

Fathom turned to walk away but Michael leapt up and grabbed hold of her.

Fathom pushed her former lover away. It pained her to treat Michael this way but it had to be done.

Fathom stormed off with the sound of her high heels echoing loudly against the marble floor.

Michael watched her go and at that moment he realised there would be no turning back from this point on. His time at the Simmington household was over for good.

Fathom was riled up by now and was determined to locate her next target and after a process of elimination she found her in the ladies restroom.

Brystle finished washing and drying her hands before she calmly replied to an irate Fathom. It was clear her step-daughter was looking for another fight. Brystle was not prepared to rise to it.

Fathom had rolled her eyes and replied in a sarcastic tone that was now beginning to irk Brystle. She turned to face her step-daughter but managed to keep her reply firm without raising her voice.

Fathom again rolled her eyes and ramped up the sarcastic tone for she knew she was pressing Brystle’s buttons.

This was a reference to a previous altercation between the 2 of them one night where Fathom had accused Brystle of cheating with Mayhew Drysdale. Brystle didn’t like where this was going and in such a public place so she decided to shut it down.

Fathom was done screwing around and decided to unleash her anger.

Brystle found herself snapping back too.

Brystle couldn’t take anymore and she turned her back on Fathom as she began to feel the same panic attack creeping in. She breathed deeply as she held onto the counter top.

Fathom marched out of the restroom leaving Brystle alone to deal with the panic attack that was crippling her. Brystle didn’t know how much more of this she could take – if it wasn’t Fathom attacking her at every opportunity it was Texas with her digs and interfering. Then there was everything she had heard in the courtroom from Michael as well as Texas. She knew Michael had told the truth – Burke DID have him beaten up as a warning to stay away from Fathom. And it now appeared Mayhew had been right all along about Burke buying people off to get his way. It also made Brystle think that despite Texas’s theatrics in the witness stand there might be some element of truth in what she had claimed. Had Burke been making people, like Todger Rhymes, disappear for years now? And he in fact covered up the fact he had Todger murdered all those years ago? And if so, could it be true that he intended to push Fred to his death that night at the opera?

Meanwhile outside the courtroom Heathen was taking a moment alone to reflect on everything that had come to light during the trial. His mother had accused his father of murdering her lover many years ago. Burke had Michael beaten up for dating Fathom. Was it so impossible to believe now that he indeed pushed Fred to his death in a violent rage? Heathen was conflicted as to what to believe anymore. His whole existence was being questioned now that it was probable that Burke wasn’t really his father and that he had a brother he had known nothing about.

While he was contemplating the magnitude of this he was approached by his mother who had been looking for her son since the court had been adjourned.

It pained Texas to see her son so upset. The recent revelations had obviously been distressing for him. Whilst Texas felt she was to blame partially for this, the bigger fault she felt lay with Burke. She took a seat beside her tearful son to try and fill him in some more on the circumstances that led to all of this heartache. This was the first time since it had all come to light that fateful night at the opera, when Fred met his untimely death, that mother and son had talked about it.

Texas remained tight lipped. There was a lot more she could reveal. Now was not the time.

Heathen wiped his tears and continued talking.

Heathen stood as he made to distance himself from his mother. Both physically and emotionally.

Texas was about to speak first when she caught sight of private investigator Horgan Mess, the man she had hired, lurking at the end of the corridor. Heathen hadn’t noticed him.

Horgan moved forward once he saw the coast was clear.

Horgan took no offence at what Texas had said as he revealed what he had discovered.

Texas was getting impatient. She wanted to go after her son.

Horgan smirked as he saw how happy his client had suddenly become upon hearing at what he’d discovered.

The enormity of what she had uncovered was overwhelming for Texas. In the space of a moment she had gone from feeling broken to jubilant. Already she was picturing how she would reveal this information and destroy Burke once and for all.

CREDITS :

This episode of Simasty was inspired by the original Dynasty courtroom season 1 finale and season 2 premiere episodes. Certain scenes and dialogue have been recreated Sims style. 

This was a technically challenging episode to create. For the courtroom scenes I had over 40 sims individually posed! All of this is beyond the capabilities of the game and would not have been possible without the use of CC and Mods by very talented artists to whom I am very grateful. For the poses I used various pose packs from 2 artists:

https://katverse.com

https://joanneberniceposes.weebly.com

I also use the pose player by Andrew available at:

http://sims4studio.com/thread/2617/andrews-studio

Also teleport any sim mod by scumbumbo, updated by Andrew :

http://sims4studio.com/post/72734

Adding so many Sims into 1 room was only made possible by using MC Command Center by deaderpool, available here:

https://deaderpool-mccc.com/#

Several outfits were CC as well. Texas’s red outfit was by ZitaRossouw and is available here:

https://thesimsresource.com/downloads/details/category/sims4-clothing-female-teenadultelder-everyday/title/fierce-red-collection/id/136827

Her hat was by Colores Urbanos available here:

https://thesimsresource.com/downloads/details/category/sims4-accessories-female-hats/title/retro-headdress-left-%28original-mesh%29/id/1379558

Brystle’s outfit was by Jonsims available here:

https://thesimsresource.com/downloads/details/category/sims4-clothing-female-teenadultelder-everyday/title/squez-outfit/id/1403633

Various shoes high heel shoes by Madlen available here:

https://thesimsresource.com/artists/MJ95

The courthouse used was downloaded from the Sims gallery. I updated the exterior to what I wanted. . You can download the original build from the gallery from user Azulsims01

https://www.ea.com/en-gb/games/the-sims/the-sims-4/pc/gallery/AF8A20E0126C11E786DAFD6CB19685FA?category=lots&searchtype=ea_origin_id&sortby=newest&time=all&searchquery=azulsims01&max=50&maxis=false

The interior courtroom I designed myself as a separate set. The wall panelling was by Peacemaker available here:

The gate rolled back with a loud buzz and Andre Wayward, the cut-throat lawyer of WindenburgSimmington, made his way into the visiting area of Sim Quentin State Prison.

A surly looking guard directed him to take a seat in a booth. Andre checked the seat and wiped it with a handkerchief before sitting himself down. He looked straight ahead through the glass at the chair where the person he was visiting would be seated. Another shrill alarm screeched and a door opened on the other side of the glass. In walked 3 prisoners. Two quickly rushed to their seats and greeted their wives who were happy to see them. The 3rd prisoner stood still for a moment before Andre beckoned him over. The prisoner gave a half smile before taking his seat opposite Andre. That prisoner was Burke Simmington. Billionaire owner of global conglomerate WindenburgSimmington. Husband, father….and accused murderer.

Burke looked and sounded like a broken man.

Burke nodded when he realised that it was Judge Doodie. He had heard of her and knew that he would get a fair trial with her.

Burke knew what Andre was telling him was the truth. He remembered ordering the background check into Brystle when he first started dating her but then declined to read the dossier when Andre presented it to him just before the wedding. How that information ended up with his poisonous ex-wife Texas was a question for another day.

This seemed to trigger something in Burle and he reacted quite vocally prompting a glare from a nearby prison guard.

There followed a momentary uneasy silence between the two of them. Eventually Burke spoke.

Hearing that his daughter had rekindled her relationship with the dependable Seth Dolby delighted Burke.

Fathom Simmington was indeed keeping on top of things across in San Myshuno that afternoon.

Giles Scott was one of , if not the, top footballers in the world. There had been several big signings lately to Windenburg United by Seth but Giles was the player everyone wanted. Fathom had secretly been doing her part to woo Giles to join her father’s team.

Giles smirked and then rolled Fathom onto her back on the floor of his hotel suite. They had been making woohoo all afternoon but he was in the mood for more.

Giles had been electric in bed but as much as she wanted to stay Fathom knew she had to wrap this up. She rolled Giles back and climbed on top before pulling his head up close to hers.

As soon as Giles mentioned Seth, Fathom pulled away and got up. Giles leapt up after her and made to grab hold of her.

Fathom remained silent as she stared at Giles. By getting Giles to sign for the club she had achieved what everyone had thought would be impossible. A star player like Giles wouldn’t have been expected to sign for a lower ranking, fledgling team like Windenburg United and that was why Set hahd been struggling to secure him like he had with the other big names he had recently signed. Little did Seth know that Fathom had secretly been meeting with all the players before they had all signed for the club that Seth was setting up…

Fathom relaxed and then smiled. Victory was hers yet again.

Giles moved behind Fathom and pulled her close to him. The scent of her perfume drove him crazy as he gently nuzzled her ear. Fathom closed her eyes in pure pleasure as near naked Giles pressed his muscular body against hers.

Fathom pulled away and picked up her clothes from the floor. Giles took a seat in the window and watched her as she got dressed.

Fathom finished dressing before touching up her lipstick in the mirror. She shook her head and dusted her hands through her long hair but it still retained that freshly woohooed look. She hoped Seth wouldn’t be able to tell.

Fathom turned round to Giles as she felt the need to remind him not to mention their afternoon activities to anyone.

Giles had had enough of negotiating and he quickly grabbed Fathom in his arms and pulled her close to him.

Fathom ended the kiss. Giles was hot and she had enjoyed her woohoo with him. And if the mood took hold of her she would enjoy another round with him in the future. But for now she was leaving.

Once she was gone Giles picked up his phone and sat back in the chair in the window. As promised he called his agent at Real Newcrest to deliver the news. Moving from a major league team like Real Newcrest to a minor one such as Windenburg United was unheard of but Giles knew that with all  the recent big signings to the club and the money and sponsorship deals that would come with the Simmington name attached it would send his career and profile rocketing even further than it already was.

Giles listened as his agent tried to advise him it was career suicide but he was adamant he would sign and that was the end of it. Reluctantly his agent Alex agreed before hanging up to make the necessary arrangements.

Giles sat back  and smiled to himself as he thought of the exciting turn his life had taken.

Little did Giles know that his life would change in so many unexpected ways over the next few months with the move to Windenburg. He was about to discover just how crazy life with the Simmington’s really was…

Back in the suburbs of Windenburg Brystle Simmington was paying a visit to the Drysdale’s. She felt the need to check in on Mayhew’s mother and daughter to make sure they were holding up.

Brystle was at first taken aback a little by Mrs Drysdale’s forwardness but she smiled and politely explained that was in the past.

Mother Drysdale however continued to push it further as she was prone to do.

Mother Drysdale was either oblivious to the fact,  or simply did not care, that she had offended her guest as she continued on talking.

As Mother Drysdale showed Brystle out, Mimsy Drysdale (now a teenage girl) came out of her room and listened in on the conversation.

Mother Drysdale waved off Brystle before closing the door and walking back inside only to be confronted by a surly Mimsy.

Quick as a flash Mother Drysdale reprimanded her grand-daughter.

Mimsy and her grand-mother stared at one another for a moment. Mother Drysdale began to wonder if Mimsy knew that she had been the one responsible for secretly tormenting her mother with the threatening phonecalls. But before she could question her Mimsy stormed out of the back door and slammed it behind her.

Outside on the lanai Mimsy made a phonecall to her secret boyfriend Luca. She had been seeing him for the past couple of weeks but didn’t want her grand-mother to know.

They continued chatting for a moment before Mimsy caught sight of her mother peeking through the blinds at her. She hung up and sighed to herself.

Detective Marco Morelli wanted answers. Ever since that stormy night 6 weeks ago, where he’d listened in the harassing phonecalls that Malaudia Drysdale had been receiving, something had been bugging him. There was something not quite right with this case and he wouldn’t let it go until he had a conclusion of what really happened that night to Malaudia. Once he’d discovered that the calls were actually coming from within Malaudia’s house he’d raced over to hers and ordered a backup squad to meet him there. When they arrived and broke down the door they found Malaudia passed out in the attic. When she came around she was hysterical. But there was no sign of anyone else being in the house. Instead 2 cell phones had been found beside Malaudia. It was the assumption of the psymchiatrist treating Malaudia that the she had been making the phonecalls to herself using the 2nd phone. But this was an assumption Morelli was having a hard time with. Not only that but he had been denied access to interview Malaudia by that same psymchiatrist, Dr. Mick Broscanni. There had been heated exchanges between the 2 men over the past few weeks until Morelli had had enough and insisted he see Malaudia for himself.

Broscanni gave a glare at Morelli as they walked towards Malaudia’s room before looking straight ahead again. Morelli had the feeling that Broscanni was not been entirely honest with him.

They stopped outside a locked door and Broscanni beckoned to it.

Broscanni shifted on his feet and fiddled with his hands.

Broscanni’s unease was not lost on Morelli. He knew now more than ever that Broscanni was hiding something. He persisted to push Broscanni further with his opinion on Malaudia.

Morelli looked into the padded cell. He was shocked to see Malaudia standing in the centre of the room wearing a straight jacket and staring vacantly up at the ceiling.

Across town Heathen was making a visit to Fred’s grave along with Tammy Flo. Ever since Fred’s demise at the foot of the stairs at the opera house Tammy Flo had been by Heathen’s side and the pair had gotten very close. She had become his constant companion much to the chagrin of both Fathom and Texas. Heathen however was distancing himself from both his sister and mother at this time and found Tammy Flo to be just the tonic he needed. Tammy Flo , unbeknown to Heathen, had her own personal agenda…

Heathen stood up and raised his hand to his face as he began to crumple. Tammy Flo immediately put her arms around him.

The truth was Tammy Flo was just as opportunistic as Fred was. The difference was that Fred had been hired to infiltrate the Simmington household. Tammy Flo was doing this of her own accord. She had watched from afar with envious eyes as her aunt Brystle had married one of the richest men in the world while she was left living in a shack in the backwoods swamps of Twinbrook, Simisouri. Tammy Flo wanted her share of the wealth her aunt had married into and now she had a way to get it. So while Heathen was in a confused grieving state over the death of his conman husband, Tammy Flo was getting ready to pounce.

Heathen was oblivious to Tammy Flo’s true intentions. He enjoyed her company and was grateful for her advice at his most darkest time.

Tammy Flo gazed seductively at Heathen as they stood by the grave of his deceased husband. Heathen felt a pang of attraction to her then immediately felt guilty. He looked away and shuffled his feet uncomfortably. Seeing this Tammy Flo realised she might have overstepped the mark too soon. Instead she locked arms with him and directed him away from the graveside.

After her afternoon romping with Giles in his suite at the Midtown Simplaza Hotel, Fathom had an early evening meeting with Cyril  Dolby at his home. Once the butler had shown her into his study, Fathom stood impatiently with arms on hips as a quiet Cyril stood with his back to her gazing out of the window. Eventually he spoke to her but still kept his back to her.

In the aftermath of Burke’s arrest Cyril had reached out to Fathom and offered her a deal that would ensure Burke’s release and acquittal of the murder charges against him but only if she would rekindle her relationship with Seth Dolby, her one time lover and Cyril’s nephew. Seth knew nothing of this deal and was overjoyed that Fathom wanted to get back together with him.

Cyril chuckled as he sat down at his desk.

Fathom could read between the lines of Cyril’s veiled threat. No doubt he had another trick up his sleeve to use against Burke.

Realising she had no choice but to marry Seth,  Fathom exploded in a thunderous rage at Cyril.

Once Fathom had gone Cyril contemplated his next move. He had orchestrated it so that Burke had been denied parole and he had enough phoney evidence to use against Burke to ensure he would never be released. Cyril had finally got Burke where he wanted but somehow it felt like it wasn’t enough. Burke hadn’t suffered enough and there was still more work to be done. But was there the time? This reminded Cyril of a phonecall he needed to make. He got up from his chair and looked out of the window again before taking his cell phone from his pocket and making the call.

Cyril listened as the doctor explained in detail what the test results meant in the long term for him. It wasn’t good news.

The conversation didn’t last much longer and it wasn’t the news Cyril had been hoping for. As he thanked Dr Edwards and hung up, the stark realisation that his time left was now mapped out for Cyril.

He had less than a year left to live….

It was early evening at the Simmington household and Texas had just marched into the mansion from her studio nearby on the grounds. The major-domo of the household Joseph Flanders, who had previous animosity with his former mistress of the house, tried to stop her.

Joseph didn’t have time to answer for Brystle had heard the commotion as she came down from upstairs.

Texas spun around and put her hands on her hips as she faced her nemesis.

Joseph decided it would be best to leave the two of them to sort it out and made his way to the kitchen.

Brystle could feel her anger rising and it was taking all of her willpower not to strike out at Texas as she had done before at the opera on that fateful night.

Texas glared at Brystle before sharply turning her back on her and storming out. Brystle’s eyes filled with tears and she quickly made her way back up to her room.

Texas made her way back to her studio located on the grounds of Siloli and she was a foul mood over her encounter with Brystle. As she marched into her house she was surprised to see a man already waiting for her inside. It was Horgan Mess, a private detective she had hired recently.

The elusive Clarke Hemmings, Brystle’s first husband, had been on Texas’s mind for weeks now ever since she had learned of him in a secret dossier composed by Andre Wayward. Texas had stumbled upon this dossier by accident as she’d searched the room of Joseph Flanders when he had hinted he had certain videos of Texas that he was blackmailing her with.

Horgan Mess left the studio and Texas took a seat as she considered what to do next now that she had located the whereabouts of Brystle’s first husband.

Later that night Fathom was on the balcony of Seth’s penthouse while he took a call from the office inside. Fathom was in turmoil as she contemplated what she had to do. Cyril Dolby had the power, influence and money to call the shots and get her father released from prison but he was also holding all the cards. Fathom had no option but to go through with what he wanted and marry Seth and she hated him for that.

She also hated herself for what she was going to put Seth through. He was innocent in all of this and didn’t deserve any of it. Whilst she didn’t love him, Fathom did not wish to hurt him but knew ultimately she would. Just then the door opened and her train of thought was interrupted as a happy Seth stepped out to tell her the news.

So Giles had come through and had kept his end of the bargain Fathom realised. Seth had no idea of Fathom’s own special deals she had made with Giles or the other players who had recently signed…

Seth pulled her closer and nibbled on he neck and ear.

Seth held Fathom in his arms. He wanted this moment to last forever.

Fathom didn’t reply. She had gotten her way again but she hated herself for it and inwardly she hoped Seth would one day understand.

The following morning in an exclusive gated cul-de-sac by the coast of Windenburg, Devonique Domino arrived at a property she wished to view. Since she had come to Windenburg over 6 weeks ago as an invited guest of Burke Simmington, Devonique had been staying in a hotel. But following her son’s death and the subsequent trial surrounding his death that was about to begin, Devonique felt she would be staying in Windenburg a lot longer.

She pulled up in her sports car and was greeted by the realtor at the gates.

Isabel sensed that Devonique was being incredibly guarded and did not like to be questioned. Then again a lot of famous people valued their privacy so Isabel did not pursue it any further as she showed Devonique into the house.

Devonique again did not say much and Isabel knew this was going to be a hard sell.

Isabel was taken aback by Devonique’s sudden decision to purchase the house considering she had been so stand offish.

Isabel went into the house to start the process leaving Devonique alone by the pool.

Just who was Devonique really and what was her intentions with Burke?

Back at the prison Burke received word that he had another visitor. He hadn’t expected anyone but figured it would be Andre with an update on the trial. But as he sat waiting for his visitor and heard the click of high heel shoes on the concrete floor he knew it wasn’t Andre. And when he saw who it was that had come here he was furious.

Texas waltzed into the visitor’s room with a triumphant grin on her face. She took a seat in front of Burke’s booth and was determined to enjoy this moment.

Burke could feel his temper already starting to flare as his ex-wife continued to goad him.

Todger Rhymes. That was a name Burke had not heard in a long time.

Suddenly Burke saw the trouble Texas could, and would, cause for him during the trial. Panic now set in as well as his anger reaching boiling point and he exploded in rage at her.

Texas quickly stood up at Burke’s explosion of anger and she seized the moment.

The guard ordered Burke to calm down. Realising he had fallen into Texas’s trap he quietly nodded and then raised his hand to his head in exasperation .

Texas could see that her words had wounded Burke and she moved in for the kill as she ramped up her verbal attack on him.

In an instant Burke could see the real potential damage Texas could do to him and he lowered his head in shock.

Texas smiled for she knew she had wounded him badly.

With a click of her heels Texas turned and sashayed away. Burke snapped out of his shock and banged his fists on the table. He was down but wpuld not go out without a fight and he yelled after his ex-wife.

Texas showed no sign of either hearing or caring what Burke was yelling at her as she walked confidently out of the building.

Burke continued to yell after her. But it was clear that getting acquitted next week in the trial had suffered a serious setback….

For this episode I used Custom Content poses and objects from very talented Sims 4 artists and I recommend you check out the following :

https://katverse.com

https://joannebernice.tumblr.com

http://www.sims4studio.com/thread/4220/sims-4-cc-princess-paranoia

The prison set I downloaded from the gallery. I made a few tweaks to it and re-named it for story purposes. The original is called ‘The Diamond Rock Prison’ and you can find it on the gallery under user ID john7980 norris

For the house purchased by Devonique, again I downloaded from the gallery and it appears in the story in it’s original form. I renamed it for my story purposes but it is on the gallery called ‘Modern Luxury Mansion’ and it was created by SimDayYT.