Focus on Revenge A Photographer’s Killer Shot novel Chapter 9

Chapter 9

Thaddeus was waiting outside, handing me a preliminary report:

“Cassian’s getting hit with attempted murder, fraud, and asset theft-we’ve got him dead to rights. Lyra’s facing the same charges as his accomplice. And his father’s company’s under investigation for financial crimes. Your studio’s assets are being frozen and

liquidated.”

I took the report without really reading it, feeling like a massive weight had been lifted off my chest.

Everyone who tried to push me into that abyss was finally facing justice.

The day I got discharged, several doctors and nurses from the rescue center came to see me off.

The magazine sent a car to pick me up.

A bunch of friends from the climbing and photography communities who’d heard what happened also showed up.

Jake, the guide from our team who’d tried to speak up, came too. He looked guilty as hell:

‘Ms. Veyra, I’m so sorry… I should’ve stood up harder for you…”

I patted his shoulder:

‘Don’t blame yourself. Self-preservation is natural. Just remember for next time-choose the right side.”

ake nodded firmly.

Back at my temporary place, I was packing my stuff when I found that down jacket Lyra had ripped.

The tear looked like an ugly scar, reminding me of those desperate, freezing moments.

folded it carefully and put it in a bag-not to hold onto hatred, but to remind myself to stay alert and keep away from people who

have no moral boundaries.

A few days later, Thaddeus came by with the magazine’s final decision.

Given the severity of the incident, National Geographic was terminating all partnerships with Drake’s company.

But since I was the victim and those final shots I’d captured were absolutely stunning, the magazine wanted me to lead the follow-up

Denali expedition once I was fully recovered, and they were offering me a long-term contract as a staff photographer.

The magazine believes in your professionalism and integrity,” Thaddeus said. “After everything you’ve been through, we think you understand the weight of nature and life better than ever, and that’ll translate into more powerful work.”

took the new contract, feeling a mix of emotions but mostly a sense of calm determination.

That life-and-death experience on the mountain hadn’t broken me-it had clarified exactly why I do what I do.

As a photographer, my job isn’t just capturing beautiful landscapes. It’s about showing respect for nature, reverence for life, and never losing sight of conscience and ethics, no matter what.

Before heading out, I visited the local mountaineers’ memorial.

It displayed belongings and stories of climbers who’d died on various peaks, plus tributes to heroes who’d lost their lives rescuing

others.

Their stories stood like beacons on the mountain-silent but powerful guides for those who came after.

I stood before the memorial wall and bowed silently, making a promise:

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