Detective Miller walked up to Arthur Vance and grabbed his wrist firmly.
Detective Miller: Arthur Vance, you are under arrest for physical assault and felony extortion.
Arthur Vance: Unhand me right now! Do you know who my lawyers are?
Detective Miller: You have the right to remain silent, Mr. Vance.
The police officers placed heavy steel handcuffs around Arthur's wrists behind his back.
The loud clicking sound echoed clearly in the quiet ballroom.
Guests began pulling out their smartphones to record the entire scene.
Arthur hung his head low as the officers escorted him out into the lobby.
Carter stepped down from the high stage and left the gold plaque behind.
He walked past the stunned crowd without looking at anyone else.
He hurried down the side hallway to return to his sister's side.
When he reached room four, two paramedics were already assisting Ava.
A kind female paramedic was wrapping a warm blanket around Ava's shaking shoulders.
Ava looked up and saw her brother walking into the room.
Ava: Carter... did you really do it?
Lieutenant Carter: Everyone in that room knows the truth now, Ava.
Ava let out a long breath and began to cry tears of relief.
The heavy weight of fear seemed to leave her body all at once.
Ava: I was so scared no one would ever believe me against him.
Lieutenant Carter: I will always stand up for you, no matter who the enemy is.
The paramedic checked Ava's pulse and carefully examined her arm bruises.
Paramedic: She needs to go to the hospital for proper X-rays and medical records.
Lieutenant Carter: I am coming with you in the ambulance right now.
They walked out of the dressing room together into the main lobby.
Arthur Vance was standing near the front glass doors surrounded by officers.
A crowd of news reporters was already gathering outside on the sidewalk.
Arthur saw Ava walking out with her brother and turned his head.
Arthur Vance: This isn't over yet! My lawyers will settle this in court!
Carter stepped in front of his sister to block Arthur's view.
Lieutenant Carter: Your money cannot erase the evidence on that recording device.
Detective Miller: Take him out to the transport car right now, officers.
The police led the disgraced businessman out into the flashing lights of the police cars.
Ava held onto her brother's arm tightly as they walked to the ambulance.
The cool night air felt fresh and clean against her skin.
She knew the road to healing would take time and patience.
For the first time in months, she did not feel afraid of the future.
Carter helped her climb safely into the back of the medical vehicle.
He sat down beside her on the bench and held her hand firmly.
Ava: What happens to his energy company now?
Lieutenant Carter: The truth will open up every hidden file in that office.