Chapter 2 - The Poisoned Well
I stared at the glowing laptop screen while a wave of pure nausea washed over my entire body.
If the federal authorities ever audited our family business, I would be the only one going to federal prison.
My father had brilliantly orchestrated a massive financial crime and positioned his own son as the perfect fall guy.
I immediately picked up my cell phone and dialed my brother Silas.
Silas answered on the first ring, his voice hushed and panicked.
He told me to meet him at an abandoned diner on the outskirts of town in exactly twenty minutes.
I wrapped Josephine in a warm blanket, carried her to the car, and drove through the dark city streets.
When I arrived at the empty diner, Silas was already waiting in a dark booth at the back.
He looked absolutely terrified and constantly checked over his shoulder.
Silas confessed that he had suspected our father's illegal activities for months but was too scared to speak up.
He handed me a thick manila envelope containing physical copies of the forged banking documents.
Silas warned me that my father had powerful friends in the local police department who would eagerly cover up his crimes.
I thanked my brother for his incredible bravery and promised to protect him when the truth finally came out.
Suddenly, my cell phone vibrated violently against the wooden table.
The caller ID displayed Clara's personal number.
I answered the call and put it on speaker so Silas could hear her.
Clara did not bother saying hello.
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She coldly informed me that if I did not return to my office desk by morning, she would make a quick phone call to Child Protective Services.
She promised to file completely fabricated abuse allegations that would ensure Josephine was permanently removed from my custody.
