Chapter 13 - The Last Thing Marcus Vale Tried to Steal
Marcus's trial began fourteen months after Hannah entered Adrian's mansion.
His lawyers attacked everyone.
Grace was a thief.
Evan was jealous.
Peter was mentally impaired.
Hannah had entered Adrian's home under a false identity.
And Adrian himself?
A bitter disabled billionaire desperate to blame someone for his tragedy.
Then Adrian testified.
For four hours.
Marcus stared at him from the defense table.
Finally the prosecutor asked, “Mr. Cole, do you believe Dr. Vale stole your ability to walk?”
Adrian looked at Marcus.
“No.”
The courtroom shifted.
“He stole time.”
Adrian continued.
“He stole information. He manipulated my treatment. He tried to make hopelessness permanent.”
A pause.
“But my life does not belong to him.”
Marcus looked away.
The jury convicted him on conspiracy, fraud, attempted murder, kidnapping, and multiple financial offenses.
Victor Shaw was convicted separately.
Grace received a reduced sentence because of her cooperation.
Evan received prison time too.
There were consequences.
No magical erasure.
No wealthy family exemption.
And Adrian wanted it that way.
When he walked out of the courthouse, Hannah was waiting.
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This time he didn't need the cane.
Not for those twelve steps.
