Chapter 8 - My Signature
A document examiner concluded the disputed signature was likely reproduced rather than freshly signed by me.
The investment company opened its own fraud investigation.
County detectives referred the financial matter to a separate white collar unit because it extended beyond the patio case.
Deputy Harris stayed with Emma’s assault investigation.
Good.
Different evidence.
Different prosecutors.
No dramatic conspiracy.
Just one family problem exposing another.
Dad came to Laura’s office again.
He brought a notebook.
“I kept track.”
Inside were small handwritten entries.
April — 500 Emma.
May — 500 Emma.
June — 500 Emma.
Seven thousand dollars total.
A secret attempt to replace money his wife took.
I looked at him.
“You knew it was wrong.”
“Yes.”
“You didn’t know full amount, but you knew enough to hide repayment.”
“Yes.”
“Why didn’t you stop her?”
He stared at notebook.
“Because Diane said Rachel needed help.”
“So?”
“She said you would never let Emma go without.”
I closed eyes.
There it was.
I was the safety net.
Therefore Emma could be raided.
“Did you tell Mom no?”
“Once.”
“What happened?”
“She said I loved money more than my daughter.”
“Rachel.”
“Yes.”
“So you let her take from my daughter instead.”
He began crying.
“I know.”
I wanted to hate him cleanly.
It would have been easier.
But Dad had saved receipts.
Repaid some.
Tried and failed.
Cowardice is not innocence.
It is also not always the same as cruelty.
I said:
“I don’t trust you.”
“I know.”
“You don’t get visits with Emma because you’re sorry.”
“I know.”
“I don’t know if you ever will.”
His eyes closed.
“I know.”
Then he said:
“Rachel knew more than I did.”
“What?”
“She asked for the money directly.”
My stomach tightened.
“How much?”
“I don’t know.”
“Dad.”
“Your mother handled it. But I heard them arguing once.”
“About what?”
“Rachel wanted another twenty thousand for the boutique. Diane said there wasn’t enough left without Claire noticing.”
The entire room went silent.
May you like
Rachel did not merely know Emma’s account existed.
She knew how much could be taken before I noticed.
