Chapter 8 - The Cornered Predator
Inside the visitation room at the county jail, Richard Vance sat across from Evelyn.
The polished defense attorney looked noticeably stressed, his tie loosened at the collar.
"We have a major problem, Evelyn," Vance said, sliding a envelope across the metal table.
"The district attorney just filed a motion to freeze your primary accounts."
"They're opening an inquiry into your late husband's estate."
Evelyn's hand trembled slightly as she pulled the papers toward her.
"That's impossible," she whispered, her voice losing its icy composure for the first time.
"Those files were destroyed a decade ago."
"Julian came back," Vance said bluntly.
"He gave everything to your son."
"And Ryan handed it straight to the prosecutor."
Evelyn slammed her palm onto the metal table, the sound echoing off the bare concrete walls.
"That ungrateful boy!" she spat, her eyes filled with rage.
"I built everything he has!"
"I protected this family from mediocre people like that girl he married!"
"Evelyn, listen to me," Vance said sternly.
"The hidden camera footage from the nursery is rock-solid."
"Now with these historical financial documents, the jury will view you as a calculating predator."
"If this goes to trial, you are looking at fifteen to twenty years in state prison."
"They are offering a plea bargain."
Evelyn glared at her attorney.
"What plea?"
"Ten years," Vance said softly.
"Full surrender of all trust authority to Ryan."
May you like
"Permanent restraining orders."
"You never see your grandson again."
