Chapter 12 - THE SENTENCE
The sentencing hearing took place the following winter.
Vincent had pleaded guilty to offenses involving racketeering-related financial conduct and extortion. His cooperation helped prosecutors pursue additional defendants and recover assets for victims, but the judge made clear that cooperation did not erase his culpability.
Tessa attended with Leo, who had reopened his bakery three months earlier. The new sign read BELL FAMILY PASTRIES. He had hired two apprentices and was saving to purchase the building outright.
Vincent stood before the judge.
“I won't ask the court to excuse what I did,” he said. “I profited from fear. I let other people carry the consequences. Whatever sentence you impose, I intend to continue making restitution.”
The judge imposed a prison sentence and ordered restitution consistent with the proceedings.
Vincent closed his eyes briefly.
He had expected the possibility. Hearing it aloud still felt like a door closing.
Outside the courthouse, reporters shouted questions.
Tessa waited until the crowd thinned before approaching him.
“Are you all right?” she asked.
“No.”
She appreciated the answer.
“I'm scared,” he admitted.
“So am I.”
He looked at her. “You don't owe me a visit. Or a letter. Or anything.”
“I know.”
“I won't ask you to wait.”
“Good.”
He smiled sadly.
She stepped closer. “I don't know what our future looks like. But I can decide whether to write to you. That's my decision.”
Vincent nodded.
“I'd like that.”
They stood in the cold sunlight without touching.
Then Tessa reached for his hand.
She held it for a moment.
Not as a promise.
Not as a bargain.
As an acknowledgment that the man before her had finally stopped pretending to be someone he wasn't.
May you like
When he was led away, she let go.
And went home to study for her anatomy exam.
