The Verdict
Chapter 16 - The Verdict
Helena was convicted on every major fraud and conspiracy count.
Celeste was convicted of evidence fabrication, attempted fraud, and obstruction.
Ethan was convicted of assault and coercion. His cooperation reduced, but did not remove, his sentence.
Helena received twenty-two years.
Celeste received fourteen.
Ethan received seven.
At sentencing, Helena said she had saved Royce Meridian and deserved the value she created.
Amelia’s statement answered:
“Contribution deserves compensation, recognition, and lawful authority. It does not convert stewardship into ownership.”
Ethan apologized without mentioning Helena, Celeste, pressure, or Amelia’s hidden fortune.
“I chose to hurt you because I believed the people watching mattered more than the person beside me.”
May you like
Amelia accepted the accuracy.
She did not offer reconciliation.
