Chapter 9 - The Trial and the Verdict
Three months later, the spring sun had melted the last remnants of winter snow, painting the Hudson Valley in vibrant shades of emerald green and blooming cherry blossoms.
Inside Courtroom 402 of the Manhattan Federal District Court, the trial of Arthur Rossi had reached its inevitable conclusion.
Seated in the front row of the gallery, Elena wore a stunning navy maternity dress, looking radiant and healthy, her hand resting comfortably in Julian’s.
On the witness stand, Arthur looked a shell of his former self. His expensive suit was rumpled, his hair unbrushed, his arrogant demeanor completely shattered under the weight of thirty-four counts of grand larceny, corporate embezzlement, kidnapping, and witness intimidation.
The federal judge adjusted his glasses, looking down sternly at the defendant.
“Mr. Arthur Rossi,” the judge’s voice echoed solemnly through the courtroom. “The jury has found you guilty on all counts. Given the severity of your financial crimes and the heinous nature of your coercion and abduction charges, this court sentences you to twenty-five years in federal prison without the possibility of parole.”
Gavel crash.
The sound echoed like a gunshot through the silent room.
Arthur slumped forward in his chair, burying his face in his hands as federal marshals stepped up behind him, slapped cuffs back onto his wrists, and led him away through the side doors for the last time.
Julian didn't even watch him leave. He leaned over and pressed a gentle kiss to Elena’s forehead.
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“It’s over,” Julian murmured.
Elena smiled, leaning her head against his shoulder. “Let’s go home.”
