Chapter 15
"The court finds the defendant guilty on all thirty counts of corporate fraud, tax evasion, and wire embezzlement," the federal judge announced, striking the gavel with sharp, echoing finality. "Richard Sterling is sentenced to twelve years in a federal correctional facility without parole."
A collective murmur swept through the courtroom gallery as the verdict was handed down. Richard slumped forward in his chair, burying his face in his hands as federal marshals stepped behind him to snap the handcuffs into place.
May you like
He cast one desperate glance toward the gallery, catching Rebecca's calm, unblinking gaze just before he was led away through the side exit. He had lost his wealth, his status, his freedom, and the only woman who had ever truly stood by his side.
Rebecca stood up gracefully, adjusting her handbag over her shoulder as she walked out of the courtroom into the bright afternoon sun. Justice had been delivered with absolute precision.
