Chapter 6 - Consequences
Larry did not apologize before the police entered.
He tried, but Charlotte raised one hand.
“Not now.”
Two officers separated him from the others. Mr. Newburger provided security footage from the office camera.
Bethany stood near the table, trembling.
“Are you going to arrest him?” she asked.
One officer answered carefully.
“We need statements from everyone.”
Larry looked at his sister.
“You believe I would steal from you?”
Bethany’s eyes filled with tears.
“I believe you trusted Victor more than you trusted me.”
“I was trying to save the buildings.”
“You never asked what I was trying to do.”
Larry had no answer.
At the station, he was questioned about the confrontation and the financial documents. He explained that Victor had sent him an altered email, but the investigator did not allow him to use manipulation as an excuse.
“You entered a law office in anger,” she said. “You struck someone who was not threatening you. Whatever Victor did, that choice was yours.”
Larry lowered his head.
For years, people had excused his temper because he worked hard. They called him passionate, protective, stubborn, or stressed.
The investigator called it what it was.
A choice.
Larry was charged for his conduct and released with instructions not to contact Charlotte directly.
The court also issued a temporary order preventing either sibling from refinancing or selling the properties.
That evening, Bethany returned to her apartment alone.
She found twelve missed calls from Victor.
May you like
She did not answer.
Instead, she sent every document, invoice, and message to the investigator.
