Chapter 8 - The Verdict
The courtroom was quiet, save for the rhythmic clicking of the court stenographer's machine.
Adrian sat in the second row of the public gallery, flanked by Owen Pike. Across the aisle, sitting at the defense table in a gray prison jumpsuit, was Maren Ellis. Her hair was no longer pinned in its immaculate navy-style bun; it fell limp around her shoulders, stripped of the corporate armor she had worn for years.
The judge adjusted his glasses and looked down at the documents before him.
"In the case of The State versus Maren Ellis, the defendant having entered a plea of guilty to the charges of attempted administration of a noxious substance, malicious endangerment, and grand larceny..."
Adrian didn't feel anger as he listened to the sentence being read. He felt only a strange, distant pity. Maren had sacrificed her freedom, her reputation, and her humanity for a phantom obsession—believing that she could conquer a grieving father’s heart through poison and manipulation.
"...the court hereby sentences the defendant to twelve years in a state correctional facility, with no possibility of parole for the first eight years."
The gavel came down with a sharp, definitive crack.
Maren did not look back at the gallery. She was led away by two bailiffs through the side door, disappearing into the gray corridors of the judicial system. Her chapter in the Wescott family history was officially closed.
When Adrian walked out of the courthouse steps into the bright afternoon sunlight, Owen was holding the car door open.
"Back to the estate, Mr. Wescott?" Owen asked.
May you like
"Not yet," Adrian said, checking his watch. "Let's stop by the organic market on Tenth Street. Talia needs fresh carrots and apples for Milo’s puree. We're trying a new recipe tonight."
Owen allowed a rare, approving smile to cross his face. "Yes, sir."
