Chapter 11 - No More Secrets Around Lily
Daniel moved Lily that night.
Mrs. Hargrove went with her.
Two federal agents stayed outside.
Vanessa asked to come.
Daniel said no.
"She's my daughter too."
"Then tell me why someone knew which music box would be at her party."
Vanessa went pale.
"You think I did that?"
"I think I don't know you."
That landed.
"Fine," she said. "Then know this. I would burn every file myself before I let anyone touch Lily."
Daniel believed the emotion.
He did not yet trust the person carrying it.
At the storage unit, investigators cataloged the crate.
Most files were old licensing agreements.
One folder was new.
STELLAN LEGACY DISTRIBUTIONS - CURRENT BENEFICIARIES.
The stolen patent royalties had not disappeared.
They were being paid every quarter.
Recipients included shell companies, trusts, and charities.
One name Daniel recognized.
MONROE FAMILY HOLDINGS.
He looked at Vanessa.
"Your name."
"My mother's name," she said.
The company had received almost nine million dollars over twelve years.
Vanessa shook her head.
"I have never seen this."
Evan searched the registration.
The managing officer was Patricia Monroe.
Vanessa's mother.
Vanessa sat down hard.
"She told me Dad left us nothing."
Daniel watched her face crumble.
They called Patricia.
No answer.
Then Vanessa received a text.
From her mother.
DON'T COME HOME.
A second message arrived.
YOU WERE NEVER SUPPOSED TO FIND THE DISTRIBUTION LIST.
Vanessa looked at Daniel.
"She knows."
Daniel took the phone.
May you like
A third message appeared.
AND DANIEL WAS NEVER SUPPOSED TO SURVIVE THE ORIGINAL PLAN.
