Chapter 10 - The Family Restored
The fallout from the dinner party was absolute.
Faced with the undeniable physical evidence of the forged ledgers and Anna's brave testimony, Victoria pleaded guilty to avoid a lengthy trial. She traded her designer red gowns for a federal prison jumpsuit, sentenced to twenty-five years in a maximum-security facility. Her wealthy friends completely abandoned her, leaving her to rot in the exact isolation she had forced upon Mrs. Moretti.
The Moretti estate was completely transformed.
With Victoria gone, the dark, oppressive atmosphere evaporated. Leo moved his mother back into the luxurious master suite, filling her room with flowers, warmth, and sunlight. Anna stepped into her new role with brilliant efficiency, quickly becoming less like an employee and more like an adopted daughter to the older woman.
Leo fundamentally changed his life. He stopped working late nights. He made sure to eat dinner with his mother every single evening, laughing and sharing stories across the mahogany table.
One winter evening, Leo walked into the grand living room. The fireplace was roaring. His mother was sitting comfortably in a plush velvet armchair, smiling warmly as Anna handed her a cup of hot tea.
Draped securely over Mrs. Moretti's shoulders was the same light blue knitted blanket.
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Leo watched them, feeling a profound, quiet peace he hadn't known was possible. He realized that true wealth wasn't found in offshore accounts or designer dresses, but in the unshakeable loyalty of the people who truly care for you in the cold.
Do you think a twenty-five-year sentence was enough justice for Victoria, or did the cruel fiancée deserve even worse?
