Chapter 10 - The Last Surprise
The scandal dominated the local news for weeks, ensuring Gavin, Brooke, and my parents would never show their faces in high society again.
Gavin was sentenced to twenty years in federal prison for the financial fraud and the conspiracy against my life.
Brooke and my mother received identical fifteen-year sentences, leaving baby Leo to be safely placed in the state foster system away from Eric's dangerous grasp.
Using the untouched First Star funds, I completely rebuilt my house and expanded my restaurant into a massive, thriving franchise.
I was finally surrounded by genuine friends and loyal employees who respected me for my strength.
I had reclaimed my business, my freedom, and my untarnished reputation.
The heavy weight of betrayal was permanently lifted from my shoulders, allowing me to finally breathe.
I drove home on a quiet Friday evening, feeling a deep, profound sense of peace as I parked in my driveway.
I walked up the front steps, ready to enjoy a quiet weekend in my beautiful, secure sanctuary.
But sitting in the center of my kitchen island was a single, fresh white peony.
Beneath it rested a handwritten note stating that I had forgotten to punish one last person.
May you like
The heavy wooden front door behind me suddenly clicked completely locked.
A tall, unfamiliar shadow stepped slowly out from the darkness of my hallway.
