Chapter 6 - THE CONFESSION
The dawn broke over the Caldwell estate, casting long, golden shadows across the sprawling lawns.
The rain had stopped.
The black SUV that had brought Nathaniel home was now joined by a dozen federal vehicles.
Grace sat on the edge of an ambulance bumper, wrapped in a thick wool blanket. Beside her sat seven-year-old Leo, clutching a stuffed bear, completely oblivious to the danger he had been in.
"It's okay, baby," Grace whispered, kissing his forehead. "We're safe now."
Nathaniel walked out of the mansion. He looked exhausted, but the heavy burden that had haunted his eyes for twenty-one years was gone.
He watched as agents escorted a handcuffed Victoria out the front doors.
She wasn't wearing her perfect ivory silk robe anymore. She was drenched, her makeup ruined, mascara tracking down her cheeks like black scars. She looked at Nathaniel, pleading silently.
He didn't even blink. He turned his back on her.
He walked over to the ambulance and sat down next to Grace.
"They found the rest of the files in her father's car," Nathaniel said softly. "Confessions. Bank transfers. It’s over. They're going away for the rest of their lives."
Grace looked down at her bruised, bleeding hands. The hands that had scrubbed that marble floor just a few hours ago.
"What happens now?" she asked.
May you like
Nathaniel reached out and gently took her hands in his. His touch was warm. Safe.
"Now," he said, "we rebuild."
