Chapter 15 - Frank's SentenceFrank pleaded guilty.
Evidence tampering.
Falsifying records.
Obstruction.
He did not ask Rosa for forgiveness.
He did not ask the judge for mercy.
He simply told the truth.
The judge considered his age.
The threats against Rosa's family.
His cooperation.
And the twenty-four years of concealment.
Frank received home confinement followed by probation.
He was forbidden from managing or owning the diner.
When the deputies came to take him away, Frank removed his apron.
He folded it carefully.
Then he placed it on the counter.
Rosa watched him.
"I'm sorry," he said.
She shook her head.
"Tell the whole truth when sorry stops helping you."
May you like
Frank nodded.
It was the first time Rosa had seen him accept a sentence he couldn't negotiate.
Related Stories
Chapter 16 - The Empty RackThe shotgun remained evidence until the appeals ended.
Chapter 17 - The Second BeginningThe new diner was poorer than the old one.
Chapter 18 - The Man UpstairsFrank lived in the apartment above the diner under home confinement.
Chapter 19 - SundayOne year after Miguel's burial, the diner held a memorial dinner.
Chapter 20 - What RemainsThe diner was quiet after midnight.
