Chapter 446: Enjoy Your Time in Prison
It seemed Lucas had to choose the lesser of two evils. Upon considering this, he quickly nodded in agreement with Madelyn. “Absolutely, Ms. Thornton. You are correct. I will definitely follow your instructions.”
After all, offending people on Janessa’s side meant, at worst, he wouldn’t get paid. However, offending Madelyn, or more seriously, the Lockhart Group, carried foreseeable and severe repercussions.
“Very good,” Madelyn nodded with satisfaction. “As they say, a wise man adapts to circumstances. Your awareness is unsurprising, Chief Shepherd.”
After speaking, Madelyn stood. “That’s all, Chief Shepherd. I believe there’s no need to remind you what needs to be done next.”
“Indeed,” Lucas nodded. What else could he do? Did he really have any choice but to follow her instructions?
“I’ll leave this matter in your hands, then. If anything is unclear, feel free to contact my assistant. He’ll guide you.” With that, Madelyn left.
As Lucas watched her go, his frown deepened.
In the afternoon at Ingram Manor, few housekeepers were present in the expansive residence. Only a butler meticulously tended the garden's flowers and plants. The once-chaotic yard, under his care, had surprisingly transformed into a remarkably neat and attractive space.
“Daniel, your skills are improving,” Rachel commented, praising the butler's work.
Daniel chuckled sheepishly. “Mrs. Lowell, you flatter me. I’m just doing my job, finding joy in tending the plants.”
Rachel nodded. “Not bad. When you’re free, do more odd jobs to keep the house looking nice.”
“Understood,” Daniel agreed.
Just then, Javier entered, impeccably dressed in a black suit. “Mrs. Lowell, there’s been an incident,” he said coolly.
“What happened?” Rachel asked.
“Impossible!” Rachel retorted immediately. “Chief Shepherd and I are close. Surely he wouldn’t deny me this small favor.”
Javier’s face soured. “Mrs. Lowell, I investigated. This morning, Madelyn visited the police station, apparently discussing matters related to Janessa.”
“That woman again?” Rachel’s anger flared. “Why can’t she stay out of trouble? Does she think the Ingram family is to be trifled with?”
Javier continued, “Mrs. Lowell, Madelyn and Ms. Sherritt have always clashed. It seems she’s trying to take advantage of Ms. Sherritt’s situation. I heard Madelyn is insisting on Ms. Sherritt’s imprisonment…” He glanced at Rachel.
If Janessa faced imprisonment, Javier would be the first to object. Rachel could help save Janessa.
“This is outrageous!” Rachel exclaimed. “I didn’t understand Janessa’s animosity toward Madelyn before. Now it’s clear. That woman is ruthless!”
Despite her anger, Rachel remained composed. Although Rachel came from a wealthy family, Madelyn had the support of Lockhart Group. Rachel lacked the courage, and saw no reason, to provoke them.
“Mrs. Lowell, what do you plan to do?” Javier asked.
Rachel fell silent, then said, “For now, let’s not make hasty decisions.”
“But Ms. Sherritt—” Javier panicked.
Rachel glared. “There’s no need to mention Janessa’s situation!”
“Understood…” Javier fell silent, though inwardly indignant. Was he supposed to just watch Janessa be jailed? If so, he wouldn’t let Madelyn off the hook.
Rachel added, “Janessa is my niece. Do you think I’d bear to see her in prison? However, given the situation, we can only wait and see. We have no other options. We’ll keep an eye on Madelyn and act accordingly.”
“Yes, I understand.”
For the next few days, Javier closely monitored the situation at the police station. Madelyn, aware that Janessa’s aunt wasn’t a pushover, had people monitoring Janessa’s side.
Cheryl, meanwhile, wished to bring Janessa to justice immediately. Therefore, she took matters into her own hands and brought Janessa to court. This caused quite a commotion, and the media reported extensively on the court hearing.
Cheryl hired the city’s most renowned lawyer. She meticulously presented evidence of Janessa’s guilt. By the time the court session began, Cheryl was among those accusing Janessa of wrongdoing. With Madelyn’s help, Cheryl had overwhelming evidence and testimony. Janessa had no defense.
The court’s verdict was delivered: Janessa was sentenced to five years in prison. This farce finally ended.
Madelyn sat in her office, reviewing media coverage of the verdict. A satisfied smile appeared on her face. “Janessa, in our past life, you left me to die in prison. Now, it’s your turn. Five years is neither long nor short. Enjoy your time in prison.” She smiled with satisfaction.
With Janessa imprisoned, Madelyn’s life was rid of a malignant presence. The following days were peaceful. Madelyn felt relief, finally free from constantly guarding against others’ schemes.