Chapter 11 - THE EMPTY TIN
The investigators approved a monitored meeting in the public lobby. Claire could leave at any time. She was to remain where the officers could see her and make no promise about surrendering evidence.
Robert's affidavit stayed secured with the other originals. The tin held copies.
Before leaving, Claire checked its loose hinge.
Lucy watched from the bed.
“Is that your brave box?”
“What makes you say that?”
“You always hold it when you're scared.”
Claire kissed her forehead.
“Maybe you're my brave girl.”
“I'm scared too.”
“You can be both.”
Daniel waited downstairs. He had asked to come. Claire had agreed on one condition: he would follow the officers' instructions instead of charging into danger to prove something.
He kept his distance in the lobby, beside Ruth.
At nine, Vanessa emerged from a private elevator in a cream coat. No diamonds tonight. No audience she wanted to impress.
She glanced at the tin.
“Finally.”
Claire remained beside the reception desk.
“You wanted to talk.”
“Upstairs.”
“Here.”
Vanessa's eyes narrowed. She scanned the lobby and spotted Daniel.
“Of course. Still letting him make decisions for you.”
“I'm standing here because I chose to.”
Vanessa lowered her voice.
“Do you have any idea what happens when those transfers become public? The foundation loses donors. Programs close. Children suffer.”
“You should have thought about that before the money disappeared.”
“Martin moved it. I didn't touch the accounts.”
“But your family's companies received it.”
“They provided services.”
“Then why change the records?”
Vanessa's mouth tightened.
“Give me Robert's statement. I'll sign something clearing your name.”
Claire stared at her.
“You could have done that five years ago.”
“Five years ago, you should have left quietly.”
“With his daughter.”
“With your problem.”
The words seemed to strike even Vanessa after she said them.
Claire held the tin steady.
“Lucy was a baby.”
“Daniel was building a future.”
“She was his future.”
Vanessa reached for the box. Claire stepped back. A plainclothes officer moved closer.
Recognizing the shift, Vanessa went still.
Her phone buzzed on the reception counter.
May you like
A message preview flashed across the screen.
Martin: Disposal truck is early. Need your cabinet key now.
