Chapter 9 – Justice
Three months later, the federal courthouse overflowed before sunrise.
The trial had become international news.
Victor Hale entered surrounded by attorneys.
For the first time in decades, cameras captured him without confidence.
Damian took the witness stand.
His testimony lasted two full days.
He admitted everything.
Every fraudulent contract.
Every illegal payment.
Every order he obeyed.
When the prosecutor asked why he had finally confessed, Damian looked across the courtroom toward Elena.
"I confused wealth with character."
He paused.
"And I confused silence with weakness."
Elena lowered her eyes.
She had never wanted his apology.
Only the truth.
After six weeks of testimony, the jury returned.
Guilty.
On every major count.
Victor Hale was sentenced to life in federal prison without the possibility of parole.
Damian received a reduced sentence for substantial cooperation.
Outside the courthouse, reporters rushed toward Elena.
"Do you feel victorious?"
She considered the question carefully.
"No."
"Then how do you feel?"
She looked at the courthouse behind her.
"Finished."
May you like
For the first time in years...
The word sounded real.
