Chapter 14 - The Offer From Prison
Ryan requested a meeting with Leah two days later.
She almost refused.
Then the prison liaison explained that Ryan had information concerning Victor Sloane and an immediate threat to Vale Hart Industries.
Leah entered the interview room with Daniel seated outside the glass partition.
Ryan looked older than he had at trial. Prison had removed the tailored suits and practiced confidence, but not his belief that every conversation was a negotiation.
“I heard you found Meridian,” he said.
“Then Sloane still has people inside the company.”
Ryan leaned closer.
“He has people everywhere.”
“Names.”
“I want something first.”
Leah stood.
“You still think you are in a position to bargain.”
“I can help you protect the company.”
“You nearly destroyed it.”
Ryan’s expression tightened.
“Sloane taught me how to hide the losses. He created the consulting companies. He told me the forged agreement would never be questioned.”
“You chose to use it.”
“Yes.”
The admission came more quickly than Leah expected.
Ryan looked down at his hands.
“I thought I could control him after I controlled your assets.”
“You never controlled anyone. You only frightened people who trusted you.”
Ryan lifted his eyes.
“Sloane has been purchasing Vale Hart supplier debt through shell companies. When enough contracts default, he will force the board to remove you.”
“Why warn me?”
“Because he promised to protect my mother and Chloe.”
“And now?”
“He sent me a photograph of Chloe entering the company yesterday.”
For the first time, Ryan’s fear appeared genuine.
“He does not protect people, Leah.”
May you like
Ryan lowered his voice.
“He keeps proof that they belong to him.”
