Chapter 15 - The Fall of ValeriaThe final confrontation happened on the same property where everything had begun.
The pool reflected the moon.
Police surrounded the estate.
Valeria stood at the edge.
Her entire empire was collapsing.
Her accounts were frozen.
Her accomplices were arrested.
The evidence was overwhelming.
Julian approached her.
"You could have walked away."
She laughed bitterly.
"Could you?"
He looked at her.
"Yes."
That answer hurt her more than anger would have.
Because Julian had finally understood the difference between revenge and justice.
Valeria stepped backward.
For one terrifying second, it looked as though she might jump.
Julian extended his hand.
"Don't."
She stared at him.
"Why?"
"Because I won't let you destroy yourself just to hurt us."
She hesitated.
Then police officers moved forward.
The handcuffs closed around her wrists.
As she was led away, she looked back at Julian.
"You think it's over."
Julian said nothing.
Valeria smiled.
"You'll see."
The gates closed behind her.
This time, Julian watched her disappear.
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And he felt no fear.
Only relief.
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