Chapter 9 - The Final Verdict
The trial of The State of Texas v. Evan Rowan lasted only four days.
With overwhelming financial evidence provided by Claire’s forensic accountants, the jury took less than two hours to reach a verdict.
Evan Rowan was found guilty on all twelve counts of wire fraud, grand larceny, and corporate embezzlement.
On the day of sentencing, the courtroom was packed with journalists, industry executives, and curious onlookers. Evan sat at the defense table in handcuffs, his head bowed, refusing to look at the gallery.
In the second row sat Leah Mason. She had entered a plea bargain with federal prosecutors, testifying against Evan in exchange for immunity from corporate theft charges. However, her victory was short-lived: Marcus Vance had stripped her of all executive positions at Vance Capital the moment the scandal exposed her, leaving her broke, publicly shamed, and facing a bitter custody battle over the twins.
The judge slammed his gavel down, demanding silence in the court.
"Evan Rowan," the judge declared, looking over his spectacles at the broken man. "Your actions demonstrate a breathtaking level of narcissism, greed, and total disregard for the law. You took a thriving institution built on the trust of your partners and transformed it into a personal piggy bank to fuel a life of deception."
Evan didn't move.
"I sentence you to twelve years in state prison without the possibility of parole for the first eight years. In addition, you are ordered to pay $14.2 million in restitution to Sterling Meridian Capital."
A loud murmur erupted across the gallery.
Evan didn't scream this time. He simply closed his eyes as a single tear rolled down his cheek. He looked toward the back of the courtroom, hoping to see Claire one last time.
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But Claire wasn't there.
She hadn't even bothered to attend. She was already miles away, building her future.
