Chapter 30- End of the Line

Victor stood speechless, his face drained of color. He stared at the camera replaying the recording of his damning conversation with Lee. His eyes darted around the courtroom, seeing the looks of shock and disdain on the faces of the judge, jury, and spectators.

Stephen, with a confident smirk, locked eyes with the judge, who nodded solemnly.

"Mr. Stephen," the judge said, his voice steady, "the evidence presented here is conclusive. You are cleared of all charges."

Relief washed over Stephen, but he kept his focus sharp. The judge turned to Victor, whose expression had morphed from surprise to rage.

"Victor King," the judge continued, his tone cold, "you are charged with conspiracy to commit murder and embezzlement, as evidenced by this recording. Your actions are reprehensible and will be met with the full force of the law. You are hereby sentenced to 25 years."

The courtroom buzzed with murmurs. Victor's fists clenched at his sides, his mind racing for an escape, but there was