Chapter 10 - THE FALL OF CELESTE ARDEN
The investigation expanded over the following months.
Financial records connected the Arden Foundation to fraudulent transfers and efforts to conceal assets.
Witnesses described pressure to falsify documents.
Rebecca's treatment history was independently reviewed.
Adrian provided evidence concerning threats made against him.
Elena testified about the false communications that had separated her from her family.
Frank gave a recorded statement with appropriate medical accommodations.
And I testified about what happened during the engagement dinner.
Celeste's attorneys challenged the evidence.
They argued that witnesses were mistaken.
That financial discrepancies were administrative errors.
That Rebecca's treatment had been medically justified.
But the documentary evidence was extensive.
Patrick Heller eventually cooperated with investigators.
His testimony connected Celeste to the financial scheme and to efforts to intimidate witnesses.
Celeste was arrested.
The news spread quickly.
The woman who had once controlled the DeLuca household through charm, manipulation, and fear now faced public scrutiny.
Marco watched the report from his study.
I entered with Frank's medication schedule.
He turned off the television.
"How's Dad?"
"Good. He completed his exercises."
Marco smiled.
"Did he complain?"
"Only six times."
Marco laughed.
"That's progress."
Then his expression became serious.
"Natalie."
"Yes?"
"I've been thinking about something."
I waited.
"My father spent months believing I was ashamed of him."
I nodded.
Marco looked down.
"And I didn't notice."
I sat opposite him.
"You were misled."
"Yes."
He paused.
"But I was also absent."
I didn't argue.
He continued.
"I thought providing the best doctors and the most comfortable house was enough."
I looked at him.
"Your father doesn't need a mansion."
Marco nodded.
"I know."
"He needs his son."
Marco stood.
Then walked toward the door.
"Where are you going?" I asked.
He smiled faintly.
"To sit with him."
I watched him leave.
And for the first time, I saw the man behind the reputation.
Not the feared mafia boss.
May you like
Not the wealthy businessman.
Just a son trying to repair what he'd almost lost.
