Chapter 8
The next morning, financial news networks across the country broke the story of the massive corporate fraud investigation in New York.
Headlines flashed across television screens detailing the arrest of high-society socialite Jessica Sterling and her secret co-conspirators.
Inside her federal holding cell, Jessica sat on the metal cot, staring at her reflection in the small stainless steel mirror.
Her emerald green silk dress was wrinkled and stained, a pathetic reminder of the luxurious empire she had thrown away for greed.
Her defense attorney walked into the visitation booth, looking grim as he slid a thick folder across the scarred wooden counter.
"The prosecution has the video, the wire transfer logs, and the sworn testimony of your husband's staff; we have no defense," he said.
"Find a loophole! I am not spending twenty years in a federal penitentiary for a few stolen millions!" Jessica hissed furiously.
"There are no loopholes when the federal government has biometric and video proof of premeditated treason," her lawyer replied bluntly.
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Jessica buried her face in her hands, finally realizing that her arrogance and cruelty had built her an inescapable prison.
Back at the estate, the autumn breeze carried the scent of fallen leaves, signaling a clean slate for the Sterling family.
