Lowering his gaze, Graham grappled with the weight of uncertainty.


    Violeta’s words confirmed his fears, leaving him at a loss.


    Lucinda’sck of trust in him was palpable, especially when it came to matters involving Valerie.


    With a heavy heart, Graham bowed his head in silence, grappling with the weight of his predicament.


    Having been by his side for many years, Violeta understood Graham better than anyone else.


    She gently urged him to consider adopting a more open-minded approach.


    “Even if you disclose the truth to Lucinda, and she trusts you enough to request Nathan to retract the usation, Valerie may still face a life sentence for her actions.


    The truth may not alter the oue of the trial.


    Honey, listen to me.Content ? copyrighted by N?velDrama.Org.


    This is beyond your control.


    Valerie has made her own decisions and understands the consequences.


    If she chose to act as she did, she’s prepared to face the consequences, including imprisonment.


    What’s more, it’s just spection on your part.


    We can’t know for sure what Valerie is thinking.


    It wouldn’t be wise to mention it to Lucinda.


    ”


    Violeta’s words held truth.


    Regardless of whether Valerie was responsible for his mother’s death or not, the oue was sealed the moment she was taken into custody by the National Security Bureau.


    Graham felt powerless to aid her any further, and he resolved not to intervene on her behalf again.


    Valerie would have to face the consequences of her actions.


    Graham remained at home, focusing on his recovery.


    Despite Lucinda’s anger, she didn’t see any efforts from Graham to intercede on Valerie’s behalf.


    He didn’t even entertain the idea of secretly visiting Valerie, which helped to ease Lucinda’s anger significantly.


    Two dayster, the verdict for Valerie was announced: life imprisonment!


    She was escorted to prison in an armored car.


    After remaining in the custody of the National Security Bureau for nearly a week, she appeared haggard and noticeably thinner.


    Her wrists were bound in handcuffs, adding to her already pitiable appearance.


    Reflecting on the heinous deeds she hadmitted, it appeared that behind every pitiful individualy their hateful actions.


    Aware of her impending life sentence without the possibility of parole, Valerie hung her head low, her eyes devoid of emotion, resigned to her fate.


    Her demeanor remained unchanged until the police escorted her out of the car.


    Several individuals stood at the prison gate, their gazes fixed on Valerie.


    Led by Lucinda and Nathan, Graham, Violeta, Hilliard, and Cyrus were all present at the scene.


    Valerie cast her gaze upon each of them before settling her eyes on Lucinda’s face.


    With a semnce of satisfaction, she spoke.


    “Lucinda, you’re truly kind.


    I’m grateful to have so many blood rtives bid me farewell.


    ”


    Lucinda’s expression remained impassive as she delivered her final words.


    “This is thest time I’ll address you as Valerie.


    As of today, your name will be erased from our family tree.


    We are no longer family.


    ”


    Valerie’s smile faltered momentarily, but then relief washed over her.


    “Yes, I understand.


    As the most prominent family in Cadiered, the Simmons family cannot afford such a stain like me.


    It would only tarnish the family’s reputation.


    ”