Chapter 11 - THE TRIAL
The trial began eleven months later.
Cora testified.
Evelyn Shaw testified.
Forensic experts explained the financial records and medical evidence.
Rourke's testimony was difficult.
He admitted helping conceal information after the warehouse explosion.
He also acknowledged that he had withheld documents from Voss.
The prosecution presented evidence that Mercer had arranged the sabotage.
Financial transfers linked the scheme to attempts to seize control of Voss's shipping operations.
The court heard that Daniel Hayes had discovered the plan.
He tried to warn Voss.
Then the explosion occurred.
Cora listened from the witness stand.
Her hands trembled.
The prosecutor asked:
"Why did you continue investigating?"
Cora looked toward Voss.
Then answered:
"Because my brother deserved to be remembered as someone who tried to save lives."
Her voice broke.
"And because I was tired of people deciding what truth I was allowed to know."
The courtroom fell silent.
Months later, Mercer was convicted on multiple counts related to the conspiracy and financial crimes.
Rourke entered a plea agreement concerning his role in the cover-up.
The investigation into Daniel's hospital death remained subject to separate proceedings.
Cora left the courthouse exhausted.
Voss waited beside the steps.
"Is it over?" he asked.
She looked at the sky.
"Not completely."
May you like
Then she took his hand.
"But we're closer."
