CHAPTER 137

DECLAN

Thorne, flanked by his lawyer, stood before the judge.

"Thorne," the judge's voice boomed, commanding attention. "You stand before this court accused of grave offenses—murder, money laundering, and tax evasion. How do you plead?"

Thorne hesitated, his eyes shifting nervously. "Guilty, Your Honor," he admitted, his voice barely audible.

A ripple of shock coursed through the spectators.

The j