My daughter slept peacefully in my arms, warm, protected, and completely safe.
Carter Holdings had new management. The stolen funds had been returned to the trust. Vanessa’s diamonds had been auctioned, and the proceeds were donated to women battling financial a.b.u.s.e. Adrian was living in a modest apartment in Jersey City while awaiting trial, carrying a family name that no longer impressed anyone.
My phone vibrated.
A message from him.
“Was ruining me worth it?”
I looked down at my daughter’s peaceful face and realized I no longer felt anger.
Only peace.
I typed my reply:
“You ru!ned yourself. I just kept the receipts.”
