Serena’s Story
Chapter 08 - Serena’s Story
Serena requested to speak with Evelyn.
The meeting occurred in a monitored hospital conference room.
Serena wore no red dress now. Her hair was tied back, and a small bandage covered the place where she struck the pool edge.
“I did not know your mother was under the lake house until last year,” she said.
“You still kept her there.”
“My father said releasing her would collapse the trust and send thousands of people out of work.”
“You gave her medication.”
“A doctor prescribed it.”
“You delivered it after she refused.”
Serena looked down.
She had grown up believing Albright Manor should one day belong to her. Victor told her Julian’s marriage to Evelyn was a temporary rebellion and that the Hart shares had been stolen from the Vale family.
When she discovered the truth, she chose not to lose the life promised to her.
“I thought if I took the ring, no one else would be hurt.”
Evelyn placed her hand on the table.
Faint marks from the heel remained.
“You had to hurt someone to say that.”
Serena cried.
Evelyn did not comfort her.
Remorse belonged to Serena. Repair would require more than tears.
Serena offered evidence against Victor: account keys, private recordings, and the location of pension funds.
Ortiz offered no complete immunity.
Serena agreed to cooperate for a reduced sentence.
Before leaving, she asked whether Evelyn would ever forgive her.
May you like
“I do not know,” Evelyn said. “But forgiveness will not decide whether you face consequences.”
For the first time, Serena heard an answer she could not negotiate.
