Chapter 9 - The Legal Judgment
Three months later, the supreme court of New York was packed to the doors for the final sentencing of Julian Vance. The trial had been a media sensation, drawing millions of viewers on Facebook and television networks worldwide. The evidence against Julian was overwhelming: corporate espionage, attempted murder, arson, and child abuse.
Julian sat at the defense table, wearing a plain orange jumpsuit instead of his signature black tuxedo. His hair was unkempt, his face pale and hollow. He looked like a ghost of the powerful man who had confidently adjusted his cufflinks at the wedding reception.
Evelyn sat in the front row of the gallery, holding Leo’s hand. Marcus, his arm still in a sling but recovering well, sat beside her.
The judge slammed the gavel down, bringing the courtroom to absolute silence.
"Julian Vance, you have shown a complete lack of remorse for a pattern of violent, criminal, and predatory behavior," the judge declared solemnly. "For the charges of corporate sabotage, aggravated assault on a minor, and attempted murder, this court sentences you to forty-five years in a maximum-security prison, without the possibility of parole."
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A collective gasp went through the courtroom, followed by a wave of quiet applause from the gallery. Julian looked back at Evelyn, his eyes begging for a shred of mercy.
Evelyn stood up slowly, holding Leo’s hand. She looked down at Julian one final time. She didn't say a word. Her silence was the ultimate condemnation. She turned her back on him, walking out of the courtroom into the bright afternoon sun, leaving him to face the dark reality of a lifetime behind bars.
