Chapter 16 - THE WOMAN WHO WASN'T DEAD
The notary's seal belonged to a dead woman. The person beside Cody was her niece, Paige Ralston, who had used the deceased notary's supplies and credentials without authorization. She had worked at Voss Document Services for two years.
Chen explained the distinction carefully. “A seal can be stolen. A name can be misused. That doesn't make the document valid.”
Paige was arrested after officers located her vehicle at the motel. Cody had left minutes earlier. In an interview with counsel present, Paige admitted she'd prepared forms that she knew were false, though she disputed her role in other transactions.
Her account led investigators to an encrypted drive in a storage locker. They recovered draft custody statements, financial summaries, and travel plans. Amanda's handwriting appeared on printed edits, but the digital files still needed full forensic review.
Meanwhile, Amanda requested permission through counsel to send Lily a birthday card. The child's advocate advised that contact should be considered through the court and treatment professionals, not granted because Amanda had written a moving note.
Daniel stared at the request. “She knows when Lily was born. I keep wondering whether that means she ever loved her.”
Rebecca didn't pretend to know. “Love isn't permission to hurt somebody.”
That night Lily woke screaming from a dream. Daniel sat on the floor beside her bed until her breathing slowed. She reached for his hand.
“Is the fan off?” she whispered.
“Yes. It's off.”
“Forever?”
He brushed her hair away from her forehead. “You are safe here. And I'll check every room with you whenever you need me.”
His phone vibrated once. Chen had sent a message.
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WE FOUND CODY'S NEXT DESTINATION. IT'S YOUR OFFICE.
