For a long time, I remained there.
Then someone entered behind me.
Melissa.
She wore jeans and carried two coffees.
“I figured you’d be here.”
“You stalking me now too?”
She smiled.
“Occupational habit.”
She handed me a cup.
I looked around.
“What happens to you?”
“I resigned.”
“I know.”
“The state’s attorney offered protection if Victor’s people try anything.”
“Do you think they will?”
“No.”
She hesitated.
“I think Victor is mostly worried about himself.”
That also sounded right.
Two days earlier, prosecutors had announced an investigation into fraud, falsification of business records, obstruction, and insurance conduct connected to the 2013 fire.
Gerald Pike had withdrawn as Victor’s counsel after discovering several documents Victor had provided him were false.
Three investors filed suit.
Two lenders demanded audits.
Victor’s empire had not vanished.
But now everyone understood whose hands had helped build it.
Melissa walked toward the old kitchen wall.
