The arrest of Ortega was a bombshell. A corrupt official, the mastermind of a criminal scheme that had stolen over a billion dollars from the state. Cases like this made the front pages of the newspapers.
Emily saw the news on television. Ethan and Ortega in handcuffs, images of the raids, comments from experts. Justice had triumphed.
In the evening, Colonel Black called Emily.
“The operation was a success. Thanks to you, we have dismantled the largest corruption scheme in recent years.”
“And what happened to the other accompllices?”
“All arrested. Ortega, his people at the IRS, the real estate agents, the appraisers, the entire network has been dismantled.”
“How many years are they facing?”
“Many. The court will decide. And the damages, all assets are frozen. The victim families will receive full compensation.”
A week later, the hearing for the divorce of Emily and Ethan was held. The process took half an hour. Given the circumstances, the court saw no reason to maintain the marriage.
Leaving the courthouse, Emily felt light. A dark chapter of her life had ended. Ahead, a new beginning.
Victor Serrano had also divorced. Pamela signed all the documents without resistance. She was sentenced to 3 years thanks to her cooperation with the investigation. She decided to have the child.
Six months passed since Ethan’s arrest. Emily’s life changed completely. She received her aunt’s inheritance, sold the apartment, and bought a large house in a subdivision outside of New York, a quiet place with a garden where Noah, now five, could play.
She worked in a small private clinic, good income, flexible hours. She had enough time for her son.
Noah adapted quickly to the new life. Children in general adapt easily to changes. He went to a new daycare, made friends with the neighborhood children. He no longer asked about his father.
“Mommy, will I get a new daddy?” he asked once during dinner.
“I do not know, sweetie. Would you like that?”
“I want one who is good and does not hurt us.”
“If we get a new daddy, I assure you he will be good.”
Emily was not lying. After everything that had happened, she had become very cautious with men. Trust had to be earned.
Victor Serrano became a frequent visitor to her home. At first he came for work rellated matters, helping with repairs, fixing things. Then the visits became more frequent and less professional.