Chapter 12 - The VerdictThe jury deliberated for less than two days.
Guilty.
On every major count.
Margaret closed her eyes.
For decades, she had believed consequences were for other people.
Now they belonged to her.
The judge imposed a severe federal sentence.
Vince received a reduced sentence for cooperation.
The Sterling assets connected to the crimes were seized and placed under court supervision.
Outside the courthouse, reporters surrounded Ethan and Ava.
One shouted:
"Mr. Sterling! Do you feel justice was served?"
Ethan looked at Ava.
She nodded.
"Yes."
Then he added:
"But justice isn't revenge."
May you like
He took his wife's hand.
"Justice is getting your life back."
Related Stories
Chapter 13 - Learning to Live AgainThe victory did not erase the scars.
Chapter 14 - Lena's New BeginningLena had nearly lost everything because she had tried to protect Ava.
Chapter 15 - The House Without FearThe Laurelhurst estate changed.
Chapter 16 - A New PurposeAva decided she would never again allow someone else's cruelty to define her.
Chapter 17 - The Last LetterMonths later, a letter arrived.
Chapter 18 - The First DanceOne year after Margaret's arrest, Ethan organized a private celebration.
