Ethan Testifies
Chapter 14 - Ethan Testifies
Ethan chose to testify.
He admitted raising the belt but denied intending to strike Sophia.
He admitted wanting the signature but claimed the company faced collapse.
He admitted knowing the medical reports were useful but insisted Helena managed them.
The prosecutor asked whether Sophia’s refusal justified fear.
“No.”
“Did you know she feared you?”
Ethan paused.
“Yes.”
“Did you use that fear?”
His attorney objected.
The judge allowed the question.
Ethan looked toward Sophia.
“Yes.”
The admission ended the mythology he had built around pressure, stress, and misunderstanding.
He still blamed debt and Helena.
But for one moment, he named his choice accurately.
The jury convicted him on every major fraud and coercion count, as well as assault.
Helena was convicted of conspiracy, unlawful medication, and theft.
Ethan received sixteen years.
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Helena received twenty-two.
Dr. Reed received seven under a cooperation agreement.
