Chapter 9 - The Trial of Chicago
The destruction of the Sterling-Marlowe conspiracy sent shockwaves through Illinois and Wisconsin high society.
Federal agents, backed by the unassailable evidence provided by Dominic and Lena, raided Sterling Pharmaceuticals' headquarters in Manhattan. Richard Sterling was charged with federal drug trafficking, racketeering, and two counts of capital murder, ensuring he would spend the rest of his natural life behind bars.
The Valenti syndicate in Detroit, stripped of their financial backing, disintegrated within weeks under pressure from state law enforcement and Dominic’s counter-operations.
By spring, the Marlowe estate was completely quiet again. The scorch marks on the foyer wall had been restored with fresh white marble, and the bulletproof glass windows were replaced.
One sunny afternoon in May, the grand gardens behind the estate were transformed into a paradise of blooming white roses, silver silk ribbons, and soft violin music.
Over two hundred guests gathered on the velvet lawn—not shadowy syndicate figures, but high-ranking city officials, hospital board members, local charity organizers, and Martha Carter, who sat proudly in the front row in a lovely blue dress.
Lena stood inside the master suite dressing room, staring at her reflection in the full-length mirror.
She wore an off-the-shoulder gown of ivory satin and lace that hugged her gorgeous, full curves flawlessly, flowing down into a romantic train. A delicate diamond necklace—a heirloom from Dominic’s grandmother—rested against her collarbone.
A soft knock sounded at the door.
Marcus Reed stepped inside, wearing a crisp black tuxedo with a white boutonniere. He looked uncomfortable in formal wear, but his gray eyes held a rare, warm smile.
"You look breathtaking, Lena," Marcus said genuinely. "Dominic is downstairs pacing a hole through the marble floor. I think he’s more nervous today than he was during the warehouse raid."
Lena laughed softly, her cheeks flushing pink. "Thank you, Marcus. For everything. For keeping us safe."
May you like
Marcus walked over, holding out his arm. "It’s my honor to walk you down the aisle, Lena. Your brother would be proud of the woman you are."
Tears pricked Lena’s eyes. She took Marcus’s arm, holding her bouquet of white roses tightly. "Thank you."
