Chapter 10 - The Courtroom Judgment
Three months later, the high-profile criminal trial of Julian and Margaret commenced at the Manhattan Supreme Court.
Margaret sat at the defense table looking gaunt, her expensive dresses replaced by a plain gray suit. Julian sat beside his attorney, looking broken and defeated.
Clare took the witness stand, looking radiant, poised, and majestic in a tailored lavender suit. She presented airtight evidence: recorded phone calls, bank ledgers, and video footage of the arson attempt.
When the judge asked Julian if he had any defense to present, Julian slumped in his chair, unable to offer a single word.
Judge Harrison slammed his wooden gavel down with absolute finality.
"For charges of grand larceny, charitable fraud, arson, and corporate sabotage," the judge declared, "Margaret Whitmore is sentenced to twelve years in state prison. Julian is sentenced to fifteen years without parole."
As court officers led Margaret and Julian away in heavy chains, Margaret looked back at Clare, her eyes filled with bitter, helpless regret.
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Clare turned her head away, taking Vincent’s hand as they walked out of the courtroom into the bright afternoon sunlight.
👉 Read PART 11 to see Vincent’s romantic surprise for Clare in Italy!
