Chapter 11 - The Fall of the Blackwell Empire
By Friday morning, Blackwell Enterprises had lost three major contracts.
Two banks froze credit facilities.
The board demanded Damon resign.
Financial reporters predicted the collapse of his family's empire.
Damon sat in his office as his attorneys explained the consequences.
"If you cooperate fully, prosecutors may distinguish your conduct from your father's," one said.
Damon looked at the files.
"And if they don't?"
"You could face charges."
Kate stood beside the window.
She had never seen him look so tired.
After the lawyers left, she approached.
"What are you going to do?"
Damon stared at the city.
"Tell them everything."
"Even if you lose the company?"
"Yes."
Kate took his hand.
"You worked your whole life for this."
He shook his head.
"I spent my whole life believing I was repairing something my father broke."
He looked at her.
"Maybe some things can't be repaired. Maybe they have to be rebuilt."
That afternoon, Damon held a press conference.
He announced an independent forensic audit, disclosed the historical financial records, and pledged cooperation with investigators.
He also stepped away from executive control while the inquiry continued.
The news stunned the business community.
Richard Caldwell called him that evening.
Damon answered on speaker.
"You've made a terrible mistake," Caldwell said.
"No," Damon replied. "I made a decision."
"You think the government will protect you?"
"I think the evidence will speak for itself."
Caldwell laughed.
"Evidence can disappear."
Kate stepped closer.
Damon noticed the fear in her eyes.
Then Caldwell added:
"Ask Miss Bennett what happened to her father when he tried to be brave."
Damon's expression turned cold.
"You will not threaten her again."
The call ended.
Kate stared at the phone.
"He's scared."
Damon nodded.
"Yes."
"Then we're close."
Before he could answer, Matteo entered carrying an envelope.
It had arrived without a return address.
Inside was a photograph of Evelyn Bennett.
She was standing outside the rehabilitation center.
Someone had drawn a red circle around her face.
May you like
Beneath it were four words.
One witness left to silence.
