Chapter 7 - A New Horizon
Four months later, the air in Provence, France, was sweet with the scent of lavender and fresh croissants.
I was standing on the balcony of a breathtaking 300-year-old chateau. When Verdant Groupe bought my farm, they didn't just want the plants. They wanted the botanist who cultivated them. I had negotiated a position as the Head of Global Botanical Sourcing for their luxury line.
I now oversaw thousands of acres of organic farms across Europe. I had a team of scientists, a massive salary, and a life I had only dreamed of when I was freezing in that shack.
My best friend Elena had flown out to visit me. We were sitting on the terrace, drinking expensive wine as the sun set over the French countryside.
"You look amazing, Clara," Elena smiled, raising her glass. "You look... free."
"I am," I said, clinking my glass against hers.
"Did you hear the latest?" Elena asked, pulling out her phone. "My cousin still lives near your old place. She said your dad is facing actual jail time for the tax evasion. And Julian? He’s working at a used car lot, completely miserable."
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I looked out over the rolling hills of purple. I felt no pity. I felt no guilt.
"They got exactly what they earned," I said softly.
