Chapter 6 - Shadows of the Past
Determined to end the nightmare, Daniel drove directly to Arthur Vance’s private office downtown.
When Daniel stormed past the receptionist into the wood-paneled office, Uncle Arthur looked up from his desk, turning pale as paper.
“Daniel... what a surprise,” Arthur stammered, trying to close his laptop.
Daniel slammed a thick legal file onto the desk. “The game is over, Arthur. Forensic handwriting experts have already confirmed Elena’s signature was forged on the 2021 trust amendments. Forensic accountants have tracked fourteen million dollars flowing into offshore accounts owned by you and my mother.”
Arthur collapsed back into his leather chair, sweat breaking out on his forehead. “Daniel... you don't understand. Your mother... she forced my hand. She had gambling debts with dangerous people—”
“I don't care about your excuses!” Daniel roared, leaning over the desk. “You helped her abuse my daughter, attack my pregnant wife, and steal from my family! You have one hour to sign a full confession and hand over every document proving Margaret’s guilt, or the FBI will be raiding this office before sunset.”
Terrified of facing federal prison alone, Arthur broke completely. He opened his safe and pulled out a hidden drive containing recorded phone calls, bank receipts, and text messages from Margaret.
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Among the files was a audio recording of Margaret from three weeks prior: “If Claire carries that child to full term, the audit will destroy us both, Arthur! I don't care how you do it—find a way to make Daniel divorce her, or make sure that baby is never born!”
Daniel’s heart pounded with a terrifying realization. Margaret was no longer just trying to save her reputation—she was unhinged enough to commit real violence.
