Chapter 8 - The Empire Collapses
The trial was swift. Confronted with mountains of financial records, medical evidence, and unanimous witness testimonies from former staff and inspectors, the jury took less than three hours to return a verdict: Guilty on all counts.
The judge sentenced Victor Hale to seven years in state prison, alongside mandatory restitution payments that effectively liquidated his entire personal estate.
As part of the final divorce decree and corporate restructuring ordered by the civil court, control of the Hale Hospitality Group was completely dissolved. The properties, intellectual property, and physical assets were awarded entirely to Evelyn as compensation for unpaid labor, damages, and systemic fraud.
Outside the courthouse, dozens of reporters gathered. Evelyn stepped into the sunlight, flanked by Grace and her kitchen crew.
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"Mrs. Hale! What are you going to do with the restaurants?" a reporter yelled, holding out a microphone.
Evelyn stopped, looked into the camera, and smiled warmly. "First, I am changing the name. Le Prestige is no more. Next month, we reopen as The Phoenix Table."
