Chapter 9
Richard didn't even turn his head to look at her as the officers guided her toward the heavy front double doors of the mansion.
"Save your breath for the judge, Victoria; your performance won't save you in a federal courtroom," Richard stated without an ounce of emotion.
The cold steel handcuffs clicked sharply into place around her wrists, echoing through the grand foyer like a death knell for her old life.
She was pushed out the door and into the back of the police cruiser, the flashing lights painting her tear-stained face in crimson and blue.
As the police vehicles disappeared down the private driveway, a profound sense of closure began to settle over the historic estate.
Richard walked back into the modern kitchen, his eyes scanning the checkered marble floor where his daughter had suffered in absolute terror.
He picked up the silver dog bowl, walking over to the stainless steel trash compactor and crushing it flat with a swift, merciless motion.
The small US flag on the marble island caught the afternoon sun, shining brightly as an eternal reminder of justice and protection.
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He pulled out his phone, calling his administrative assistant to cancel all upcoming business trips for the foreseeable future.
"From now on, my daughter comes first; my empire means nothing if I lose the only person who makes it worth building," Richard declared firmly.
