Chapter 16
Three months later, the green mountains of Vermont were ablaze with the brilliant red, orange, and gold of autumn.
A private dirt road wound through dense pine forests, leading to a sprawling timber-frame cabin overlooking a clear lake.
Smoke curled lazily from the massive stone chimney into the crisp mountain air.
Ethan stood on the wide wooden porch, wearing a classic flannel shirt and work boots, holding a mug of black coffee.
Down near the water’s edge, Lily was giggling as she tossed breadcrumbs to a family of ducks.
Clara was sitting on a wooden bench nearby, sketching the landscape in a new leather-bound notebook.
Sarah was inside the kitchen, humming a cheerful tune as she prepared a traditional Thanksgiving roast.
The peace was absolute, quiet, and earned through fire.
A sleek silver SUV pulled up the gravel driveway, parking near the woodpile.
District Attorney Victoria Vance stepped out of the driver’s seat, wearing a comfortable beige sweater and jeans.
She looked relaxed for the first time in years, the burden of the high-profile prosecution finally behind her.
“Hey, big brother,” Victoria called out, walking up the porch steps.
“How’s life in exile?”
“It’s not exile, Vic,” Ethan smiled, giving his sister a warm hug. “It’s paradise.”
“How is Mom?” Clara asked, walking up from the lake holding Lily’s hand.
Victoria’s expression sobered slightly, though her tone remained gentle.
“She accepted a plea deal this morning,” Victoria reported.
“Five years of probation and community service due to her age and cooperation.”
“And Thomas Montgomery?” Ethan asked.
“Life without parole,” Victoria said firmly. “And Chloe was sentenced to fifteen years in Bedford Hills.”
Lily ran up to Victoria, wrapping her small arms around her aunt’s waist.
May you like
“Auntie Vic! Look at my new boots!” Lily cheered, showing off her red rubber rain boots.
Victoria laughed, scooping her niece up into a giant hug. “They are the coolest boots in Vermont, sweetie!”
