Chapter 9 - THE JUSTICE OF BLACKWOOD
A year after the night Nora wandered through the oak door, the final trial of Marcus Kane concluded at the federal courthouse in downtown Blackwood.
Adrian, Claire, and their legal team sat in the front row of the courtroom as the judge read the final verdict. Marcus Kane was sentenced to thirty-five years in federal prison without the possibility of parole for attempted murder, corporate fraud, and embezzlement.
As the bailiffs led Marcus away in handcuffs, he paused near the wooden railing, looking at Adrian with bitter, hollow eyes.
"You think you've won, Adrian?" Marcus spat bitterly. "You're living with your dead wife's sister! You'll always be haunted by what happened!"
Adrian stood up slowly, looking down at his uncle with calm, dignified composure.
"I am not haunted anymore, Marcus," Adrian said clearly, his voice steady. "Evelyn's memory is honored every day through her daughter's laughter, through the lives saved at Claire's clinic, and through the truth that finally came to light. You built your life on lies and poison. I built mine on love. Enjoy your cell."
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Marcus was dragged out through the heavy doors, screaming curses that were quickly drowned out by the judge's gavel.
Claire wrapped her arm around Adrian's waist, resting her head against his shoulder. He wrapped his arm around her, kissing her temple gently as they turned their backs on the courtroom and stepped out into the bright afternoon sun where news reporters and supporters cheered for the restored Kane family.
