Chapter 9 - ASHES AND ANCHORSThree months later, the trial of Evelyn and Chad Vance began in the federal district court of Seattle.
The media circus outside the courthouse was deafening. Reporters, camera crews, and curious onlookers packed the streets, all eager to witness the downfall of high society’s most notorious corporate dynasty.
I arrived in a classic black trench coat, flanked by Harrison Reed and federal security. I didn't hide my face, nor did I lower my eyes. I walked straight up the marble steps with my head held high, a living embodiment of justice delivered.
Inside the courtroom, Evelyn and Chad sat at the defense table. Their expensive designer suits were replaced by standard orange jumpsuits. Gone was Evelyn’s arrogant posture; her hair was unstyled, her face lined with deep wrinkles of defeat and humiliation. Chad stared blankly at the polished wooden floor, unable to meet the eyes of anyone in the gallery.
When the jury foreman stood up to read the verdict, the courtroom fell into a pin-drop silence.
"On all counts of conspiracy to commit second-degree murder, corporate embezzlement, securities fraud, and obstruction of justice... we find the defendants, Evelyn Vance and Chad Vance, guilty."
The gavel slammed down with a resounding crack.
Guilty.
Evelyn closed her eyes, a muffled sob escaping her lips as the federal marshals stepped forward to snap the final cuffs on their wrists. Justice wasn't just a concept—it was a reality that had finally caught up with them.
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As they were led away through the side doors, Evelyn turned her head for one brief second. Her eyes met mine across the courtroom. There was no defiance left in them—only a terrifying realization of complete, irreversible ruin.
I didn't blink, and I didn't smile. I simply watched them disappear behind the heavy oak doors, closing the final chapter of a nightmare.
