Chapter 10 - The Dawn
Six months later, the Vance estate looked entirely different. The oppressive, dark curtains were gone, replaced by bright sunlight streaming through the windows.
Richard was sentenced to life in maximum security without the possibility of parole. Vivian, having survived the poison, turned state's evidence against him in exchange for a lighter sentence for her involvement in the fraud.
Clara stood on the balcony overlooking the manicured gardens, breathing in the fresh, crisp morning air. She was no longer a victim. She was the sole owner of a billion-dollar empire, and she had never felt more alive.
The balcony door opened, and Elena walked out, holding two cups of coffee. She was no longer wearing an orange maid’s uniform. She wore a sharp, tailored business suit.
“Here you go, partner,” Elena smiled, handing Clara a cup.
Clara took it with a warm smile. In her revised will, and in the newly established Vance Foundation, Elena wasn't just an employee anymore. She was the Vice President of Operations and Clara’s closest friend.
“The board meeting is in an hour,” Elena reminded her. “Are you ready?”
Clara looked out over the horizon, the sun rising over the estate, casting away the last remnants of the darkness.
“More than ever,” Clara said.
May you like
They clinked their coffee cups together, two women who had defied death and won. The coffin was shattered forever, and the future was entirely theirs.
(The End)
