Chapter 5 - Richard Reveals His Missing Son
R.V. did not refer to Richard.
It referred to Ryan Vale.
Richard’s son.
Ryan had served as foundation treasurer until three years earlier.
Then he disappeared.
Publicly, Richard claimed Ryan resigned after a family dispute.
Privately, Ryan left one message:
Do not look for me. They’re watching the foundation.
Emma stared at Richard.
“You hid this from investigators.”
“Yes.”
“Why?”
“I thought I was protecting him.”
“Or protecting your family name?”
Richard swallowed.
“Both.”
Celeste had dated Ryan years earlier.
Richard explained Ryan ended the relationship shortly before
disappearing.
Emma looked at the ledger.
“If Ryan discovered the theft, why are his initials beside the
transfers?”
Richard’s voice broke.
“Maybe he wasn’t investigating it.”
May you like
Emma refused to choose the comforting explanation.
They needed evidence.
