Chapter 18 - The Trials
The Sterling scandal consumed national headlines.
Martin Blackwood was charged with Evelyn’s murder, financial conspiracy, obstruction, and ordering Rose Hale’s death.
Arthur Sterling faced decades in prison.
Grant Keller was charged with Rose’s murder and the attempted poisoning of Harrison.
Dr. Cole lost his medical license and pleaded guilty to conspiracy and evidence falsification.
Harrison also accepted responsibility.
He admitted helping stage Evelyn’s death and hiding the foundation crimes.
Before sentencing, Lucas visited him.
Harrison looked smaller without the mansion, the staff, and the Sterling name surrounding him.
“I loved your mother,” he said.
Lucas believed him.
That made the truth worse.
“Then you should have chosen her.”
Harrison lowered his head.
“You chose the family name instead.”
Camille faced assault charges for what she had done to Nora.
Her cooperation reduced the sentence, but not the consequences.
Afterward, she asked Nora to meet her in the empty ballroom.
The same chandelier glittered above them.
The same marble floor lay beneath their feet.
May you like
Only now Camille stood where Nora had once knelt.
And she had no riding crop to hide behind.
