Chapter 7 - The Senator’s Confession
Malcolm Vale fled toward private airfield but federal agents stopped him before plane departure. Evidence from Julian’s ledger connected him to laundering, obstruction, bribery, and cover-up of Amelia’s death. Vanessa negotiated cooperation.
She agreed testify against father.
In exchange prosecutors considered reduced charges regarding conspiracy to intimidate Amelia.
Evan hated deal.
Grace asked, “Do you want law or revenge?”
“Law.”
“Then sometimes law disappoints.”
“I know.”
Vanessa requested see Evan once.
He agreed under supervision.
She looked smaller without audience.
“I didn’t hate Amelia.”
“That helps nothing.”
“I envied her.”
“Why?”
“She had you before power swallowed everything.”
Evan laughed bitterly.
“Amelia had worst parts too.”
Vanessa cried.
“I thought if she disappeared emotionally, you’d see me.”
“You ordered Dominic scare mother of my children.”
“I know.”
“Then you abused them.”
She closed eyes.
“I hated reminders.”
“Of her?”
“Yes.”
“You punished seven-year-old because dead woman made you jealous.”
“I know.”
“Stop saying it like confession earns mercy.”
She nodded.
“You’re right.”
He stood.
“Goodbye Vanessa.”
She whispered, “Do you love Grace?”
He stopped.
“Not your concern.”
“You do.”
He left.
But question followed.
Did he?
Too soon.
Too complicated.
Grace was not replacement.
He refused that.
Amelia remained part of home.
Grace insisted photographs return.
She helped Sophie frame new one for hallway.
“She deserves exist without making me smaller,” Grace said.
Evan stared.
“You’re extraordinary.”
“No.”
“Yes.”
“I’m housekeeper who yells.”
“Exactly.”
She laughed.
First uncomplicated moment.
Then FBI called.
Dominic had been found.
Dead.
Apparent suicide.
But pocket contained note:
MARTIN LIED. AMELIA WAS NOT ACCIDENT.
May you like
Meaning intentional?
Case reopened deeper.
