Chapter 18 - THE RECKONINGThree days later, the sun broke through the storm clouds over the city for the first time in a week.
In the high security courtroom of the Federal Justice Center, Lucas Moretti stood in handcuffs, flanked by armed marshals. Beside him stood Vargas and the surviving conspirators. The evidence presented against them was ironclad: the recovered server files, the video footage from the hidden camera, and the forensic trails of the poison.
Alejandro walked into the courtroom wearing a dark, immaculate suit. He took his seat at the front witness bench. Beside him sat Elena, her leg neatly set in a cast, looking dignified and calm.
When the judge called for final statements, Alejandro stood up. He didn't look at Lucas with anger; he looked at him with absolute disdain.
"Lucas Moretti betrayed his family, attempted fratricide, and targeted an innocent child for greed," Alejandro stated, his voice resonating through the solemn courtroom. "He sought to destroy the bloodline. Today, the law will ensure he never sees the light of day again."
The judge delivered the verdict: multiple life sentences without the possibility of parole in a maximum-security federal facility. As the guards dragged Lucas away, screaming in denial, Alejandro turned his back on his brother forever.
In a press conference held outside the courthouse immediately afterward, reporters swarmed Alejandro.
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"Mr. Moretti! Who will take over the controlling shares of the Moretti Conglomerate now?" a journalist shouted.
Alejandro looked directly into the news cameras. "The Moretti empire was built on secrecy and fear. That ends today. I officially recognize Elena Moretti as my legitimate sister and equal partner. And her daughter, Emma, is the sole recognized heir to the Moretti legacy."
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