TAKE YOUR HANDS OFF HER

Federal prosecutor Naomi Grant met the Vale family in a private conference room two days later.

She listened without interruption while Elena described everything.

Naomi then placed several photographs on the table.

Victor Hale entering Daniel’s office.

Marcus Venn meeting with a bank employee.

Daniel leaving the headquarters of a company connected to Westbridge.

“We’ve been investigating the Westbridge transaction for several months,” Naomi said. “We believe Daniel and Victor created false contracts to attract investors. Your forged transfer may provide direct evidence of their methods.”

Elena felt cold.

“How many people lost money?”

“At least twelve investors. Possibly more.”

“And Celeste?”

“We don’t know how involved she is.”

Elena remembered the note in the red folder.

Use Elena’s account temporarily.

“She knew about my money.”

Naomi nodded.

“We’ll need the original folder.”

“It’s in Daniel’s office.”

Robert leaned forward. “We can retrieve it.”

“No,” Naomi said. “If they realize Elena is cooperating, they may destroy evidence.”

The prosecutor proposed a different plan.

Elena would return to the Mercer estate and act as though she had reconsidered. She would agree not to report the transfer until after Brianna’s wedding.

Meanwhile, investigators would continue following the money.

Margaret immediately objected.

“You’re asking her to go back into that house.”

“I’m asking whether she feels safe enough to do so,” Naomi replied.

Everyone looked at Elena.

She thought of Daniel blocking the office door. She thought of Celeste’s expression when she tore the agreement.

She was afraid.

But fear had already controlled too much of her life.

“I’ll go back,” she said.

Naomi gave her a small recording device disguised as a silver bracelet.

“Do not confront them alone. Gather information, but leave immediately if you believe you’re in danger.”