The Hidden Service Account
Chapter 11 - The Hidden Service Account
An internal audit uncovered payments from Whitmore Logistics to a roadside recovery contractor that had no legitimate assignment on the date of Ethan's crash. The payments were routed through vague service descriptions and approved by Chad's assistant.
One contractor employee, Daniel Price, was interviewed by police. Through counsel, he acknowledged that he'd been sent to the collision site before the ambulance arrived. His instructions were to recover a damaged phone from the SUV and bring a female witness away from the scene.
Daniel insisted he'd been told the woman was disoriented and would receive medical care. He admitted that he'd later realized she might have been held against her wishes.
Isabella stood when Naomi delivered the update. “Where did they take her?”
“Investigators are following the addresses,” Naomi said.
“Was she alive when they left?”
“Yes. Daniel says she was conscious.”
Isabella covered her mouth. Ben began crying beside her. It wasn't proof that Mara was alive now, but it was the first grounded account of her movements after the crash.
Meanwhile, the corporate audit found that Chad's disputed proxy documents had been used to pressure investors but had not lawfully transferred Ethan's control. Ethan's decision to create a separate holding company had protected more than a hotel purchase; it had prevented Chad from consolidating the power he wanted.
Samuel asked Ethan whether he wished to return immediately to his former executive role.
“Not on their timetable,” Ethan said. “I can work. I can lead. And I can also decide what work is worth my time.”
That night he and Isabella sat on the lakeshore. Waves tapped the seawall. She slipped the lighthouse necklace into her palm.
May you like
“Sometimes I feel guilty for hoping,” she admitted. “What if we're wrong?”
“Then we'll face what's true,” Ethan said. “But you don't have to apologize for loving your sister.”
