Chapter 7 - The Dissolution of an EmpireWith Victor and Judith permanently behind bars, the process of liquidating Hale Construction began.
Under the federal asset forfeiture laws, any property or company utilized in a money-laundering scheme can be seized and sold to pay off the victims and the state's restitution demands.
I sat in the grand office of the state receiver, my hands resting on my leather folder. Across from me sat the lead bankruptcy trustee, a serious-faced man named Marcus.
"The asset allocation is complete, Adrian," Marcus said, sliding a thick blue binder across the table. "By liquidating Hale Construction’s commercial assets, we’ve managed to recover sixteen million dollars. After paying off the municipal fines, the remaining eight million dollars is being transferred directly to Elena’s charity foundation as compensation for her trauma and loss."
"And the ruined property?" I asked. "The abandoned warehouse where he kept her?"
"We've seized that as well," Marcus smiled. "The title has been transferred to your sister's name. She is legally the sole owner of the land."
"Perfect," I said. "We're going to demolish that warehouse tomorrow morning. I want every single stone of the place where they tried to break her to be turned into a public park for the children of this city."
My phone buzzed with a message from Elena.
May you like
Adrian. The workers are ready at the site. We are waiting for you.
I stood up, buttoned my jacket, and walked out of the office. The empire of the Hales was officially dissolved, and the foundation of my family’s legacy was finally secure.
