Chapter 17 - The Grand Ballroom Trial That Changed Everything
Three months later, the federal courtroom in downtown Chicago was packed to absolute capacity.
National news cameras lined the back aisles, broadcasting the historical trial across every major network in America.
Marcus DeLuca and David Vance sat at the defense table, their expensive suits looking crumpled and defeated.
Luca and Maren sat in the front row of the gallery, with little Wren sitting proudly between them holding her silver medal.
The federal judge banged his wooden gavel, calling the courtroom to absolute silence as the verdict was read.
"On all forty-two counts of federal racketeering, conspiracy, and human trafficking, the jury finds the defendants guilty," the judge announced.
Gasping echoes rippled through the gallery as the hammer came down on the untouchable DeLuca dynasty.
Marcus lowered his head into his hands, realizing his lifetime of corporate greed had finally met its end.
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Federal marshals moved in quickly, placing steel handcuffs on both men and escorting them out through the back doors.
Wren looked up at her parents, a bright, beautiful smile lighting up her face as the courtroom erupted in applause.
