Chapter 16 - Her Voice Was Not for Sale
"No," Khloe said.
Dana put her on speaker so Marcus could hear the discussion.
"We can consider a plea if prosecutors believe it serves justice," Khloe continued. "But I will not promise silence as the price of accountability."
"You don't control the criminal charges," Dana reminded her. "You do have a right to submit a victim-impact statement and make your position known."
"Then make it known."
Marcus reached for the chair opposite her.
"May I?"
She nodded.
"I used to think keeping everyone happy was the same as protecting us," he said.
"It was easier than choosing a side."
"Yes."
"But there was already a side, Marcus. I was your wife."
He swallowed.
"You're right."
Across the city, the prosecutors reviewed the footage, the forged paperwork, Elaine's messages, and the medical evidence.
Isabella faced charges related to the assault and attempts to interfere with the investigation.
An independent financial investigation into Rossi Medical continued separately.
At the foundation, Avery informed the board that the Aster contract would not proceed and that the original safety reports would remain part of the permanent audit record.
Khloe declined a request to appear at the announcement.
"Patients aren't props for a press conference," she told Avery.
Instead, she sent a short statement supporting independent safety reporting and transparent investigations.
That night, Willa opened her eyes while Khloe spoke to her through the incubator door.
"That's my girl," Khloe whispered.
Marcus watched from the chair beside them.
For the first time in weeks, the room felt almost ordinary.
Then Detective Brooks called.
May you like
Elaine's lawyer had delivered one final recording that Isabella apparently hadn't known existed.
It contained Isabella's own voice, discussing what should happen to Khloe before the attack.
