Chapter 12 - The Trial's Final GavelWinter arrived, bringing with it the formal conclusion of the state’s case against Helena Vance. The courtroom was packed with journalists and former business associates, eager to witness the downfall of a once-prominent socialite.
Helena sat at the defense table, stripped of her silk dresses and pearls, clad in an orange prison smock. Her gaze remained sullen, defiant, refusing to show remorse.
Mason took the stand as the primary witness. When asked to identify the defendant, he met her eyes without anger, pity, or hesitation. He spoke with absolute clarity, recounting the timeline, the evidence, and the cold calculation that had nearly orphaned his children on the day of their birth.
The jury deliberated for less than three hours.
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"On the charge of attempted first-degree murder with premeditation and financial enhancement, we find the defendant... guilty."
The judge delivered a sentence of thirty-five years without the possibility of parole. As Helena was led through the holding cell doors, she cast one final look toward Mason. He did not look back; his eyes were already focused on Clara, seated in the gallery row, radiating quiet grace.
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