Chapter 8 - The Reckoning
Pandemonium erupted in the pews. Flashbulbs went off like lightning.
"What is the meaning of this?" Uncle Richard shouted, jumping up from the front row.
"The meaning, Richard, is that I have been fully healed for months," I said, walking down the steps of the altar. My legs moved with predatory grace. "Long enough to hear every whisper. Long enough to watch you try to steal my company."
Julian lunged forward. "Arthur, let's calm down, we can explain—"
"Explain what, Julian?" I snapped, pulling a small remote from my pocket and pressing a button.
The massive projector screens, which were supposed to show a montage of our romance, flickered to life. Instead of wedding photos, the screens played the crisp, clear security footage of Eleanor and Julian passionately kissing in my drawing-room. The audio of Richard detailing his embezzlement echoed through the holy walls.
Eleanor shrieked, covering her face. Julian turned pale, backing toward the side exit.
"Nobody leaves," I commanded.
The heavy oak doors of the cathedral swung open. Dozens of police officers, led by the Chief, poured into the aisles.
"Richard Sterling, Julian Hayes, Eleanor Vance," the Chief announced over a bullhorn. "You are all under arrest for conspiracy, fraud, and embezzlement."
May you like
Handcuffs clicked. Eleanor screamed, dragging her expensive white gown across the floor as they pulled her away. "Arthur, please! I love you! It was Julian's idea!"
I stood there, watching the trash take itself out. The empire was safe. The parasites were gone.
