Chapter 13 - A Woman Without a Microphone
News vans lined the driveway by afternoon.
One commentator called Naomi a thief. Another called her a liar. Neither had spoken to her.
At the estate, Marcus found her standing in the staff kitchen with her apron folded in her hands.
"You don't have to come back today," he said.
"If I stay away, she'll say I ran."
"That isn't fair."
"Nothing about this is fair."
Adrian gave a short statement on the front steps. He didn't reveal private medical details or accuse anyone of crimes not yet proved.
"My mother is receiving independent care," he said. "The foundation has reported suspected forged documents and unauthorized transactions. Naomi Carter raised concerns that deserve investigation. She has my full cooperation and protection as a witness."
A reporter shouted, "Did she take half a million dollars?"
"I have seen no evidence that Naomi received that money," Adrian replied. "The account attributed to her is under investigation."
Inside, Naomi watched on a muted television.
"He should have said that yesterday," she told Marcus.
"Yes," he answered.
At the hospital, Evelyn was sitting up. Her hands shook, but her words were clear.
"Naomi," she said when they spoke by phone, "I heard what they're saying."
"It'll pass."
"Don't lie to me to make me comfortable. That's what everyone else did."
Naomi swallowed. "I'm scared they'll ruin my name."
"Then we'll tell the truth where they have to listen."
That evening a nurse called Adrian. A private transport company had arrived to take Evelyn to a long-term care facility.
"Who ordered the transfer?" he demanded.
"They presented a medical authorization. I refused because it didn't match her chart."
"Where were they taking her?"
The nurse read the facility's name.
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Adrian recognized it instantly. Dr. Wren had recommended the same place before anyone knew Evelyn was being sedated.
Then the nurse added, "The authorization lists Naomi Carter as the consenting caregiver."
