Chapter 12 - Derek Finally Admits What He Did
Months later, Derek gave a formal statement through counsel.
He admitted creating the digital signature file.
He also admitted placing Michael’s signature onto the home-equity
documents.
Victoria told him Michael had already approved the loan verbally and was
too sick to sign repetitive paperwork.
Derek wanted to believe her.
Then the first loan funded part of his business.
That made it easier not to ask questions.
He denied placing the signature onto the power of attorney.
Forensic evidence suggested the same file was used, but investigators
continued separating what could be proven from what could only be
inferred.
Derek admitted notarizing the mortgage acknowledgment without Michael
present.
He called it the worst professional decision of his life.
Sarah said:
“No. The worst decision was knowing it was wrong and continuing because
you benefited.”
Derek nodded.
He did not ask forgiveness.
His relationship with Emma ended almost completely.
She remembered him laughing in the church while Victoria grabbed her.
Years later, that memory hurt more than the money.
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Documents could be corrected.
A child remembers which adults thought her fear was funny.
