Chapter 32 - the verdict margaret heard aloneMargaret was convicted of conspiracy, fraud and obstruction.
Arthur Vale received a reduced sentence after surrendering financial records and identifying corrupt officials.
Samuel was convicted of kidnapping, attempted murder, extortion and conspiracy.
He showed no reaction until the judge ordered the Mercer trust placed beyond his control permanently.
Then he laughed.
“You believe paper ended this?”
Daniel met his gaze.
“No. People telling the truth ended it.”
Tessa accepted a plea agreement and a prison sentence.
Before being taken away, she asked to speak with Daniel.
“I hated you for leaving.”
“I know.”
“I thought Mother chose you even when she punished you.”
“She chose control.”
Tessa looked toward Claire.
“I helped her nearly destroy your marriage.”
“Yes.”
“Will you forgive me?”
Daniel did not give her the answer she wanted.
“Forgiveness is not the same as pretending it did not happen.”
Tessa nodded.
For once, she did not argue.
Margaret requested that Daniel visit her after sentencing.
He declined.
Instead, he sent a single photograph.
Lily and Emma stood beside the cardboard castle they had built together.
May you like
There was no message.
Margaret returned the photograph unopened.
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