The Sister Who Had Been Trying to Warn Me
Chapter 03 - The Sister Who Had Been Trying to Warn Me
At the hospital, a physician told us Emily had a fractured ankle, severe bruising, and no immediate sign of a head injury. She would need follow-up care and time to recover. My mother held Emily's hand while she slept after treatment.
“She's been trying to reach you for weeks,” Mom said.
“About what?”
“Your father's foundation.”
I sighed. “Mom, the foundation is fine.”
“That's what Vanessa told you.”
I looked toward Emily. I suddenly remembered every call I'd ended early because Vanessa said Emily was creating drama. Every family dinner Vanessa had somehow turned into an argument. Every time I'd let peace in my household matter more than listening to my sister.
Mom opened her purse and removed a folded letter. Dad's handwriting was unmistakable. He had instructed that a small historic building in Brooklyn remain protected for use by a community education program supported by the Ashford Foundation. Emily had been working on an architectural restoration proposal for it.
“The board approved a review of the property last month,” I said.
“A review isn't a sale,” Mom answered. “Emily found a proposed transfer to a company connected with Vanessa's father.”
I read the letter again. My stomach tightened.
Richard Sinclair, Vanessa's father, was an influential property developer. Vanessa had assured me that her family wouldn't participate in any Ashford Foundation transactions to avoid conflicts of interest.
“Why didn't Emily tell me?”
“She did,” Mom said quietly. “You told her to stop accusing your fiancée.”
I remembered the conversation. Emily had called while I was boarding a flight. She said she had found something concerning. I told her to send it to my office and promised to review it. Later, Vanessa said Emily's email was full of unfounded accusations. I never opened the attachment.
I sat down beside the hospital bed.
Emily stirred and whispered, “Danny?”
“I'm here.”
“Did you see the video?”
I nodded.
May you like
Tears gathered in her eyes. “Will you finally read what I sent you?”
I held her hand. “Every word.”
