Chapter 8 - The Plea Deal
The legal proceedings moved with lightning speed, largely because Mark had zero leverage and zero funds to fight back.
Eleanor Vance cornered Mark’s court-appointed public defender in a conference room two weeks later. Because Tiffany had indeed flipped on Mark to save herself from being charged as an accessory, the DA had an airtight case.
Mark sat across the table from me, wearing an orange county-issued jumpsuit. The perfectly coiffed hair was greasy. The arrogance was gone, replaced by a hollow, terrified shell of a man.
Julian sat beside me, refusing to look at his father.
"Here is the deal," Eleanor said, sliding a thick contract across the table. "Mr. Foster will plead guilty to one count of felony wire fraud and one count of identity theft. In exchange for Elena dropping the civil suit, Mr. Foster will surrender his 401k, his remaining equity in the foreclosed house, and his vintage watch collection directly to Julian’s educational trust."
Mark stared at the papers. "That’s everything. That’s my entire retirement. I'll be left with nothing."
"You left my son with $412 dollars," I said, my voice steady and cold. "Sign the paper, Mark."
Mark looked at Julian, tears welling in his eyes. It was the first time I had seen him cry, but I knew he wasn't crying out of remorse. He was grieving the loss of his own comfort.
"Jules," Mark pleaded. "I'm your dad. I made mistakes, but I love you. Please. Don't let her do this to me."
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Julian finally turned his head. His eyes were devoid of any sympathy. "My dad died the day he left me and Mom in a freezing apartment so he could go find himself. You're just the guy who stole my tuition. Sign the paper."
Mark’s hand shook as he picked up the cheap pen and signed away his life.
