Chapter 17 - WHAT EVELYN HID
The account had been created eleven years earlier.
Before Evelyn disappeared.
Before Marcus began moving money.
Claire examined the records.
The account contained more than forty million dollars.
Richard stared at his wife.
"Why didn't you tell me?"
Evelyn looked down.
"Because I put the money there."
Everyone froze.
Ethan looked at her.
"Why?"
"To protect you."
She explained that when she discovered Marcus's crimes, she moved part of the family's legitimate assets into a hidden trust.
She had planned to return once Marcus was exposed.
But circumstances forced her into hiding.
The money had remained untouched.
Claire checked the records.
It was completely legal.
Richard sat down.
"I thought I had lost everything."
Evelyn touched his shoulder.
"You didn't."
Ethan looked at his mother.
"Then why did Marcus say the money was stolen?"
"Because he wanted you to believe it."
Claire realized something.
"The restaurant bill."
Everyone looked at her.
She explained that Marcus had manipulated the situation because he knew Ethan's behavior could push Claire away.
He wanted Ethan isolated.
He wanted Claire gone.
But the plan had failed.
Ethan smiled sadly.
"I almost lost her anyway."
Claire looked at him.
"You did make me pay."
He nodded.
"I'm still sorry."
"Good."
He smiled.
"What if I make it up to you?"
"How?"
"A real dinner."
Claire raised an eyebrow.
"Who's paying?"
Ethan laughed.
"I am."
For the first time that night, everyone smiled.
But outside, a police officer approached Richard.
"There is one more problem."
Richard frowned.
"What?"
The officer handed him a phone.
May you like
Marcus had sent one final message.
You haven't found the real owner yet.
