He understood that an investigation might uncover his own negligence.
I looked at him for a long time.
“Why come to me first?”
“Because I need you to know that I believe you.”
My eyes burned.
He leaned forward.
“Caroline plans to announce the Rose Street sale at the gala. She’s already told the donors the board approved it. She wants to commit the foundation to a development agreement that night.”
“Can the board stop her?”
“They’re calling an emergency meeting before the event. The bank is reviewing the accounts. But Caroline doesn’t know the full extent of the investigation.”
I closed the folder.
“Then she deserves to hear the truth from the people she’s been lying to.”
Nathan looked frightened.
“Mom, that could destroy her.”
I held his gaze.
“No, Nathan. What she did may destroy her. Telling the truth will only make people see it.”
For the first time in months, he didn’t argue.
Saturday arrived beneath a cold, cloudless sky.
The Grand Ashbury Ballroom glowed with golden light.
Hundreds of guests arrived in tailored suits and expensive gowns.
Photographers gathered near the entrance.
A string quartet played beneath the staircase.
Every table carried a small silver centerpiece engraved with the Vale family name.
Caroline had spared no expense.
I arrived alone.
Thomas had offered to accompany me, but I refused.
I needed to walk into that room on my own feet.
I wore the black gown Arthur had chosen for our anniversary.
Around my neck was the silver diamond necklace he’d given me that same evening.
I hadn’t worn it since his funeral.
When I fastened the clasp that afternoon, I could almost hear his voice.
