Chapter 17 - Justice Served Cold
The judge showed absolutely no mercy during the sentencing phase of the trial.
He called their actions "a repulsive, calculated betrayal of the highest sacred trust between a mother and son."
Marcus was sentenced to fifteen years in a state penitentiary, without the possibility of early parole.
Vanessa, despite her deal, was sentenced to five years for her active role in the fraud and cover-up.
As the bailiffs dragged Marcus away, he finally looked at me, crying genuine tears of regret.
"Mom, please, I am so sorry, don't let them take me!" he begged, his voice echoing in the silent room.
I simply turned my back on him and walked out of the courtroom, my cane clicking sharply on the marble floor.
Outside the courthouse, flashing cameras and eager reporters swarmed Arthur and me.
"Mrs. Vance, how do you feel knowing your son is going to prison?" a reporter shouted over the chaos.
I stopped, adjusting my sunglasses, and looked directly into the news camera.
"I feel incredibly safe, and I am looking forward to a very peaceful retirement," I stated firmly.
May you like
I got into the back of Arthur's waiting town car, leaving the circus of media behind me.
Justice had been served cold, swift, and absolute.
