Chapter 14 - The Visitor|
At two o'clock that afternoon, a soft knock sounded at the double doors of the penthouse.
Marcus Vance—now working as the chief security consultant for the new Carter Foundation—stepped into the room carrying a manila folder.
"Elena, Sarah," Marcus greeted respectfully. "I have the monthly update from the federal correctional facility in upstate New York."
Elena set her pen down. "How is Alexander?"
"His final appeal was denied yesterday," Marcus reported smoothly. "He was sentenced to twenty-five years without the possibility of parole. All of his personal assets have been liquidated to pay the federal restitution fines."
Sarah nodded slowly, her expression quiet. There was no joy in her brother's downfall, only the relief of justice finally served.
"And his legal team?" Sarah asked.
"Richard Blake and the rest of the board members who helped him cover up your disappearance have all been indicted," Marcus added. "The entire old network has been dismantled."
"Good," Sarah said firmly. "Thank you, Marcus."
Marcus bowed his head slightly and stepped out, closing the heavy doors behind him.
Elena walked over to the floor-to-ceiling window, looking out over the busy city streets below.
"Do you ever regret it?" Elena asked softly, turning back to Sarah. "Hiding for eight years?"
May you like
Sarah walked over, standing beside her at the window, watching Sofie play near the bookshelves.
"I regret that I couldn't hold my daughter for her first three years," Sarah whispered, her voice thick with emotion. "But when I look at how brave, happy, and safe she is with you... I know every single second in the dark was worth it."
