Chapter 8 - Cracks in the Stepfather's EmpireThomas Sterling stepped forward, opening a heavy black binder connected to the town hallâs main digital projection screen.
The screen illuminated with high-resolution scans of the forged 2012 quitclaim deeds, side-by-side handwriting analyses performed by state forensic experts, and secret offshore bank accounts registered under Richard Vanceâs name.
The entire hall erupted into wild gasps and shouts!
âThese documents prove that Mr. Richard Vance illegally converted fifteen million dollars from the late David Carterâs estate,â Attorney Sterling announced loudly over the noise. âFurthermore, he forged the late Arthur Carterâs signature to steal four hundred acres of protected timberland.â
Sarah turned to Richard, her eyes wide in absolute horror. âRichard... is this true?! Did you forge my fatherâs name?!â
âShut up, Sarah!â Richard snarled, his arrogant composure completely shattering as he backed away toward the exit doors.
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âYou threw me out because you thought I was weak, Richard,â Emma said softly into the microphone, looking directly into his terrified eyes. âYou thought if I had no roof over my head, I would never find out what you took from my family.â
At that moment, four state troopers stepped through the back entrance doors, blocking Richardâs escape path.
