Two in New York.
One in Miami.
All paid from the account Caleb told you was for “professional development.”
Mara’s name appears on one travel upgrade.
You stare at the screen for a long time.
Then you save everything.
You are done mistaking proof for pain.
Proof is freedom when you finally know what to do with it.
At 2:00 p.m., Adrian’s legal counsel calls.
Evelyn Hart does not waste words.
“Mrs. Rowan, I need a formal statement regarding the documents you provided last night. I also need to know whether you are represented by counsel for personal matters involving Mr. Rowan.”
“I will be.”
“Good. Do not meet him alone. Do not release additional documents directly. Do not speak to Mara Lane. Do not allow anyone to pressure you into calling this a misunderstanding.”
You almost smile. “You’re very direct.”
“I’m expensive. It saves time.”
You like her immediately.
The investigation moves quickly.
Caleb’s company laptop reveals more than even you expected. Inflated vendor invoices. Ghost consulting fees. Travel receipts. A spreadsheet named Q4 Projection Final that contains your formulas, your notes, your correction comments, and Caleb’s name on the cover page.
Mara cooperates within forty-eight hours.
Of course she does.
She provides emails showing Caleb asked her to create M&R Strategic Services as a pass-through vendor. She claims she was manipulated. Evelyn says the word “claims” with enough skepticism to make you feel seen from thirty miles away.
Caleb tries to blame you.
That part almost makes you laugh.
