Chapter 3: The Shield He Never Saw
Chapter 3: The Shield He Never Saw
The front doors opened.
Not with violence.
With purpose.
A team of attorneys entered first.
Behind them came two investigators from an independent forensic accounting firm.
Finally, an older man with silver hair walked into the hall.
Richard Ashcroft.
Isabella's father.
Adrian stared.
"You..."
Richard's voice was steady.
"For years you believed I was a retired accountant."
"I was."
"I simply neglected to mention I founded the investment group that acquired a controlling interest in your company last year."
Adrian took a step backward.
"That's impossible."
Richard handed a folder to the lead attorney.
"Not impossible."
"Documented."
The attorney opened the file.
"There is evidence of unauthorized payments, conflicts of interest, and suspected embezzlement through a third-party consulting company."
He looked toward Vanessa.
"Your company."
Vanessa's knees weakened.
"I didn't know..."
May you like
Richard interrupted quietly.
"Every transfer leaves a trail."
