Chapter 15 - Forty-Five YearsThe judge sentenced Caroline to forty-five years in federal prison.
The courtroom fell silent.
Caroline stood motionless.
There was no screaming.
No manipulation.
No final performance.
Only exhaustion.
As the marshals led her away, she stopped beside Arthur.
“I really did love you,” she whispered.
Arthur looked at her for several seconds.
“I believe you did.”
Her eyes filled with tears.
“Then why couldn't you forgive me?”
Arthur's answer was quiet.
“Because love doesn't give anyone the right to destroy another person.”
Caroline lowered her head.
Then she walked away.
The doors closed behind her.
Arthur remained seated.
May you like
For the first time, he felt no anger.
Only release.
Related Stories
Chapter 16 - RebuildingThe Sterling Foundation was rebuilt from the ground up.
Chapter 17 - The Woman Behind the BadgeMonths later, Arthur found Elena standing alone on the estate balcony.
Chapter 18 - The Glass on the WallArthur kept the broken wine glass.
Chapter 19 - A New BeginningSix months after Caroline's conviction, the estate hosted another gathering.
Chapter 20 - The MessageNear midnight, Elena's phone vibrated.
