Chapter 5 - Bethany’s Decision
Inside Charlotte’s office, Bethany prepared to sign the emergency petition.
Mr. Newburger reviewed every paragraph with her.
“This document does not remove Larry’s ownership,” he explained. “It only prevents major transactions until an independent audit is complete.”
Bethany nodded.
“And if the audit proves Victor did nothing wrong?”
“Then the restriction can be removed.”
Charlotte placed a pen beside Bethany.
“No one is forcing you. You may leave now and think about it.”
Bethany stared at the signature line.
She remembered Larry helping her build a treehouse when they were children. She remembered him standing outside her school when their father forgot to pick her up.
But she also remembered the dozens of recent calls, the accusations, and the way he dismissed every question she asked.
Family love could be real and still become unhealthy.
Bethany picked up the pen.
“I’m signing.”
As she wrote her name, a shadow moved beyond the window.
The window swung open.
Larry entered.
The confrontation lasted less than a minute.
His accusation.
Charlotte’s refusal to be intimidated.
The movement of his arm.
Mr. Newburger pulling him back.
Bethany revealing that the petition had been her choice.
Then Mr. Newburger showed Larry the refinancing document bearing his forged signature.
Larry’s face became pale.
“I didn’t sign this.”
“We know,” Charlotte said.
Larry looked at Bethany.
“What is this?”
“It’s the agreement Victor planned to submit after getting my signature.”
Larry shook his head.
“No. Victor said you were selling the buildings.”
“He lied.”
“You sent an email.”
Charlotte opened her laptop.
“This email?”
She displayed the original message.
Larry compared it with the screenshot Victor had sent.
The words were different.
He slowly removed his sunglasses.
For several seconds, no one spoke.
May you like
Then sirens sounded outside.
Mr. Newburger had already called the police.
