Chapter 3 – The Truth in the Attic
The attic had always belonged to Richard Whitmore.
No one entered without permission.
Claire climbed the narrow staircase with Marcus beside her.
Near the far wall sat an old military footlocker.
The second key from Evelyn's sewing kit fit perfectly.
Inside were folders.
Hard drives.
Bank statements.
Insurance policies.
A thick journal.
Every page told the same story.
Richard had discovered that Vanessa had secretly transferred millions of dollars from family investment accounts into businesses owned by her relatives.
When he confronted her, she claimed it was a misunderstanding.
He had hired forensic accountants.
He had begun changing his will.
He had also written one final note.
If anything happens to me suddenly, demand another autopsy.
Claire stared at the page.
Her father had died from a reported heart attack.
No one had questioned it.
Until now.
The police obtained search warrants after reviewing the financial documents and photographs of Evelyn's condition.
Investigators reopened Richard Whitmore's death.
Toxicology samples preserved by the medical examiner revealed dangerous levels of prescription medication that had never been prescribed to him.
The manner of death was officially changed from natural causes to suspicious pending further investigation.
Vanessa's confidence disappeared overnight.
Her bank accounts were frozen.
The property transfers were halted.
News crews gathered outside the estate.
Tyler quietly packed his belongings.
Before leaving, he stopped in front of Claire.
"I'm sorry."
She looked at him.
"I didn't know."
"I believe you."
He lowered his head.
"I should've asked more questions."
May you like
Claire nodded.
"We all should've."
