Chapter 9 - The Final Verdict
The jury deliberated for less than two hours before returning to the tense courtroom.
Victoria and Beatrice stood before the judge, looking completely hollowed out and utterly defeated.
The foreman of the jury stood up, holding the official verdict form with a shaking hand.
"On the charge of attempted first-degree murder, we find the defendant Victoria Thorne, entirely guilty."
Victoria's knees buckled immediately, but the strong bailiffs roughly held her upright.
"On the charge of attempted first-degree murder, we find the defendant Beatrice Thorne, entirely guilty."
The judge slammed her wooden gavel down with an incredible, final force.
"I am sentencing both of you to forty-five years in a maximum-security state penitentiary without the possibility of early parole."
The gallery erupted in loud cheers and thunderous applause.
Clara let out a massive breath that she felt like she had been holding for her entire life.
As the guards dragged the screaming, terrified sisters out of the courtroom, they locked eyes with Clara one last time.
There was no smugness left, only absolute, crushing despair and terrifying regret.
Justice had been served swiftly, brutally, and publicly.
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Arthur placed a comforting hand on Clara's back and guided her toward the heavy exit doors.
"It is truly over now, my sweet daughter," Arthur whispered softly.
