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The case was reopened, and sharp–eyed netizens noticed that the truck involved in the father’s accident had deliberately swerved toward him, suggesting intent.
As public outrage reached a boiling point, the state launched a special investigative task force to address the “520 Incident” and uncover the truth behind St. Augustine Academy.
Around this time, my college entrance exam results came out: I could choose between any top university I wanted.
St. Augustine Academy, despite being tied up in the investigation, still had to fulfill their promise and wire me the $150,000 scholarship
money.
I was called in several times to provide testimony as a key witness.
Looking at the pile of case files on the desk, I knew this was just the tip of the iceberg.
St. Augustine didn’t just target transfer students for the amusement of their wealthy heirs. They also used underage girls to secure connections and bribes.
Everyone knew that attending this school meant rubbing shoulders with the elite, offering the chance for a life–changing social climb.
But no one told them the cost
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Everyone knew that attending this school meant rubbing shoulders with the elite, offering the chance for a life–changing social climb.
But no one told them the cost.
Even within the school, there was a strict hierarchy. Everyone, no matter their background, was just a pawn in the game.
On the day I received my acceptance letter, I visited Emily Dawson.
She was smiling more than before, focused on painting a bright sunflower field under the sunlight.
“Emily, I’m off to college,” I said.
She gently touched my acceptance letter, her eyes filled with joy and a hint of longing.
“All of us owe you for your bravery. Without you, there would’ve been more victims, and people like me might never have found the courage to keep living.”
I shook my head. “It was your comment that made me realize I wasn’t the only one. I just wanted the world to know–it wasn’t our fault. It was
theirs.”
Six months later, the task force concluded its investigation, and justice was served.
Ethan’s family was charged with murder, theft of state secrets, and bribery. His parents were sentenced to death.
Ethan himself was convicted of raping a minor and intentional assault, earning him 20 years in prison.
St. Augustine Academy was found guilty of bribery, prostitution, and other crimes. Everyone involved faced prosecution.
Even those who had helped protect the school’s network of corruption were investigated and punished.
My social media account blew up once again as the case wrapped up.
“The creator planned every step so perfectly, it’s like she knew the plot in advance.”
“If she hadn’t shared everything in real time, she might not have had the evidence to protect herself when things went south.”
