Chapter 25

Alex POV:

As I watched, Rugard's face turned ashen, his eyes darting wildly around the courtroom as he realized his plan was unraveling. Lawyer Michael continued, his voice firm, "My Lord, Mr. Rugard has been involved in the illicit trade of banned drugs in this country. He profits a staggering 100 million every year from this illegal activity."

Lawyer Frank jumped to his feet, his voice rising in indignation. "Impossible! My client would never engage in such activities."

Lawyer Michael smiled wryly, producing a stack of documents from his briefcase. "I have evidence that proves otherwise." He handed the documents to the court clerk, who passed them to the judge. She scanned them, her expression unreadable, before returning them to Lawyer Michael.

"My Lord, my client seeks to claim ownership of Mr. Rugard's company and properties, given his gross mismanagement and illegal activities," Lawyer Michael stated.

Lawyer Frank shook his head vehemently. "My client is innocent of all these accusations."

The judge slammed her gavel, silencing the room. "Quiet!" She surveyed the courtroom, her eyes lingering on each face before rendering her verdict. "I hereby declare Mr. Rugard guilty of all charges. His properties, including his company, will be forfeited to Mr. Alex Grande as compensation. Mr. Rugard will serve 12 years in prison for disobeying the laws of this country." The judge's words hung in the air like a challenge. "Meeting adjourned."

As the judge exited the courtroom, the room erupted into a flurry of activity. Lawyers gathered their papers, whispering to each other, while the courtroom staff began to clear the room. I felt a sense of satisfaction wash over me, knowing justice had been served.

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Jenny POV:

As I stepped into the warm embrace of my Aunt Cathy, the familiar scent of her perfume enveloped me, transporting me back to a time when life was simpler. "Welcome, my dear," she said, her voice dripping with affection. "How's everyone? It's been years since you left. I hope Cindy is giving you some rest now."

I chuckled, knowing that my little cousin was a bundle of energy. "No, she isn't. She's always everywhere I go. Thank goodness her father came today, or else she would have been with me," Aunt Cathy said with a laugh.

I smiled, remembering my own mischievous days. "I would do the same if I were her too," I said.

Aunt Cathy playfully rolled her eyes. "You stubborn children. We're going to Bason Food Restaurant, your father's restaurant, to celebrate your welcome."

As we arrived at the restaurant, I was struck by its transformation. The once small eatery had expanded into a spacious, bustling hub of activity. "I know you're surprised," Aunt Cathy said, noticing my wide eyes.

I nodded, still taking in the changes. "Let's go in," she said, holding my hand.

Inside, the aroma of savory dishes wafted through the air, teasing my taste buds. Aunt Cathy shouted, "She's back now!" and the room fell silent as all eyes turned to me.

A warm smile spread across my face as I hugged my grandmother tightly. "Granny, I missed you!"

Cindy, now a big girl, stood up and exclaimed, "Is that Aunty Jenny?" before rushing into my arms.

As I hugged her, I couldn't believe how much she had grown. "I can't believe my baby Cindy has become a big girl," I said, setting her down.

The staff greeted me with warm smiles, and I was introduced to unfamiliar faces. "We've heard so much about you from your boss," one of them said. "What did he tell you about me?"

"He said you're beautiful, intelligent, and many other wonderful things, and I can really see that you are," they replied.

Aunt Cathy invited me to sit, and as I did, the staff began to beat a lively rhythm on the tables, announcing the arrival of Chef Bason. My father emerged, dancing with a spoon in hand, his staff following with an array of dishes. The energy was infectious, and soon everyone was vibing to the music.

When the song ended, my father sat down, and the staff presented the various dishes. As we occupied the circular seating, my father asked, "How was my dance, Jenny?"

I laughed, still surprised by his moves. "I liked it. I was surprised you could still shake your body like that," I teased.

He chuckled, feigning offense. "You're making fun of me, Jenny."

I reassured him, "I'm just surprised, Dad."

He smiled, standing up to address the gathering. "Thanks, everyone, for coming today to celebrate my daughter's return. I've missed her every day, and seeing her tell me she was coming made me happy."

His words touched my heart, and I felt a lump form in my throat. I stood up, hugging him tightly. "You're the best dad in the world," I said.

As we hugged, I felt a sense of belonging, of being home. We sat down, and my father invited everyone to raise their glasses. "Let's cheers to Jenny's welcome," he said.

The room erupted in a chorus of cheers, and we began to eat, savoring the delicious dishes my father had prepared. I felt grateful for this warm, loving family of mine.