Chapter 4
"Mr. Vance, federal investigators have authenticated the hospital birth registry and DNA markers," David Miller announced, holding out an official folder stamped with federal seals. "Your parental rights were illegally terminated through fraudulent adoption papers filed by Evelyn Vance."
Marcus looked down at Leo, a profound wave of relief washing over his weary features. He knelt down until he was eye-level with the boy, his voice dropping into a soft, emotional register.
"I'm right here, son," Marcus choked out, pulling Leo into a tight, protective embrace that bridged ten lost years in a single second. "I'm never letting you go again."
Leo buried his face in his father's black chef's coat, sobbing tears of pure joy and relief. The fine dining room dissolved around them into a blur of accountability and long-overdue justice.
Evelyn stumbled toward the French doors leading to the garden, desperate to escape the wreckage of her empire. One of the federal marshals stepped forward swiftly, blocking her exit with calm authority.
"Evelyn Vance, you are under federal arrest for child abduction, corporate fraud, and obstruction of justice," the marshal recited, pulling out a pair of steel handcuffs. "You have the right to remain silent."
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"Do you know who I am?" Evelyn screamed, struggling violently as the cold steel snapped around her wrists. "I built this entire state's economy!"
"In America, no one is above the law, Mrs. Vance," Clara remarked coldly, watching the former queen of high society subdued with chilling indifference.
