Chapter 22 - The Unexpected CallTwo years after the trial, I was sitting in my office reviewing the quarterly expansion reports for our European division when my desk phone rang. It was the direct line—a number only a handful of people possessed.
I picked it up. “Claire Sterling.”
“Dr. Sterling,” a neutral, professional voice replied. “This is Warden Jenkins from the Alderson Federal Prison Facility.”
I paused, setting my pen down. “Yes, Warden.”
“I’m calling regarding inmate #48209—Vanessa Mercer.”
A cold stillness settled in my chest, but my heart rate didn't spike. “Has something happened to her?”
“She has submitted nineteen requests for a visitation permit with your name listed as the primary sponsor,” the warden explained. “Standard protocol requires us to verify if you wish to be placed on her approved visitor list or if you prefer a permanent administrative block.”
I looked out the window of my office. The city below was bright, bustling, moving forward at an incredible speed.
“Permanent administrative block, Warden,” I said, my voice completely devoid of hesitation or malice.
“Understood, Dr. Sterling. The file will be updated immediately. She will not be permitted to contact you again.”
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“Thank you.”
I hung up the phone. I didn't feel triumph. I didn't feel sorrow. I simply felt the quiet, clean peace of a closed book.
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