Lowering his gaze, Graham grappled with the weight of uncertainty.
Violetaâs words confirmed his fears, leaving him at a loss.
Lucindaâs lack of trust in him was palpable, especially when it came to matters involving Valerie.
With a heavy heart, Graham bowed his head in silence, grappling with the weight of his predicament.
Having been by his side for many years, Violeta understood Graham better than anyone else.
She gently urged him to consider adopting a more open-minded approach.
âEven if you disclose the truth to Lucinda, and she trusts you enough to request Nathan to retract the accusation, Valerie may still face a life sentence for her actions.
The truth may not alter the outcome of the trial.
Honey, listen to me.
This is beyond your control.
Valerie has made her own decisions and understands the consequences.
If she chose to act as she did, sheâs prepared to face the consequences, including imprisonment.
Whatâs more, itâs just speculation on your part.
We canât know for sure what Valerie is thinking.
It wouldnât be wise to mention it to Lucinda.
â
Violetaâs words held truth.
Regardless of whether Valerie was responsible for his motherâs death or not, the outcome was sealed the moment she was taken into custody by the National Security Bureau.
Graham felt powerless to aid her any further, and he resolved not to intervene on her behalf again.
Valerie would have to face the consequences of her actions.
Graham remained at home, focusing on his recovery.
Despite Lucindaâs anger, she didnât see any efforts from Graham to intercede on Valerieâs behalf.
He didnât even entertain the idea of secretly visiting Valerie, which helped to ease Lucindaâs anger significantly.
Two days later, the verdict for Valerie was announced: life imprisonment!
She was escorted to prison in an armored car.
After remaining in the custody of the National Security Bureau for nearly a week, she appeared haggard and noticeably thinner.
Her wrists were bound in handcuffs, adding to her already pitiable appearance.
Reflecting on the heinous deeds she had committed, it appeared that behind every pitiful individual lay their hateful actions.
Aware of her impending life sentence without the possibility of parole, Valerie hung her head low, her eyes devoid of emotion, resigned to her fate.
Her demeanor remained unchanged until the police escorted her out of the car.
Several individuals stood at the prison gate, their gazes fixed on Valerie.
Led by Lucinda and Nathan, Graham, Violeta, Hilliard, and Cyrus were all present at the scene.
Valerie cast her gaze upon each of them before settling her eyes on Lucindaâs face.
With a semblance of satisfaction, she spoke.
âLucinda, youâre truly kind.
Iâm grateful to have so many blood relatives bid me farewell.
â
Lucindaâs expression remained impassive as she delivered her final words.
âThis is the last time Iâll address you as Valerie.
As of today, your name will be erased from our family tree.
We are no longer family.
â
Valerieâs smile faltered momentarily, but then relief washed over her.
âYes, I understand.
As the most prominent family in Cadiered, the Simmons family cannot afford such a stain like me.
It would only tarnish the familyâs reputation.
â