Chapter 3 - The Text from the AuditorAs I walked back up the dock toward the lantern-lit lawn, my phone chimed again.
It was a secondary confirmation message from Detective Marcus Hill of the County Sheriffâs Department, sent directly to my private line:
DETECTIVE HILL: Mrs. Hayes, Attorney Vance forwarded the audit report and forged loan documents. Two deputies are in position outside the main entrance gates. Give the signal when you want us to enter.
I typed a brief, single-word reply: âNow.â
The Fourth of July fireworks were reaching their grand finale across Silver Lake, filling the dark summer sky with roaring explosions of glittering white, ruby red, and emerald green.
On the patio, Bethany raised her glass high, tapping a silver spoon against her champagne flute to command the attention of all twenty-six guests.
âAttention, everyone!â Bethany announced with a radiant, artificial smile, her voice projecting across the patio. âHarvey and I would like to make an official announcement regarding the future of the Silver Lake Waterfront Resort!â
The investors clapped enthusiastically. Harvey stood beside her in his linen shirt, puffing out his chest, looking like the triumphantly successful heir to a multi-million-dollar estate.
âAs you all know,â Bethany continued, stepping near the farmhouse table where Duke was still licking the metal bowl, âweâve spent the afternoon showing you the future site of our boutique hotel development. Tomorrow morning, the three-million-dollar investment fund officially closes!â
âExcuse me, Bethany,â my voice rang outânot loud, but clear, precise, and carrying an absolute authority that sliced straight through the applause.
May you like
Every head turned toward the edge of the patio.
I walked onto the cedar deck, holding the heavy mahogany binder against my side.
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