The courtroom was silent as the verdict was read.
“Clara Hastings—guilty on all counts.”
Gasps rippled through the room. Clara’s face twisted in fury as officers led her away, her empire of deceit crumbling into nothing. For the first time, she was powerless.
Amelia squeezed Alexander’s hand, relief flooding her chest. It was over. Truly over.
When they stepped outside, sunlight spilled over the courthouse steps. Reporters surged forward, microphones flashing, but Alexander didn’t let go of her hand. Instead, he faced the world with her at his side.
“For years,” he said, his voice steady, “I thought power was measured in money and control. But I was wrong. Real strength is love. And I wouldn’t be standing here if not for Amelia.”
The crowd erupted, cameras flashing, but Amelia barely
