In June, Victor agreed to plead guilty to financial offenses involving unauthorized transactions and falsified documentation. The punishment lacked cinematic drama.

Real consequences usually do. Nobody collapsed. There was no thunder outside. No hysterical confession echoing through the courtroom.

Victor stood rigid before the judge, his face drained of color, as each condition was read aloud.

Restitution.

Terms of probation.

A suspended prison sentence, contingent on his cooperation and repayment.