Chapter 8 - THE LIE MARCUS HAD KEPT
Marcus Reed had served Adrian for twelve years.
He was more than a security chief.
He was family.
Adrian trusted him with his life.
Now Marcus stood in the library, unable to meet his eyes.
"Tell me," Adrian said.
Marcus swallowed.
"Daniel collapsed after a dinner at Vincent's house."
Adrian frowned.
"I know that."
Marcus continued.
"Dr. Sloane was there."
Adrian went still.
"What?"
"He examined Daniel before the ambulance arrived."
"Why wasn't that in the report?"
Marcus looked down.
"Vincent told me it would create unnecessary questions."
Adrian stared.
"And you believed him?"
Marcus's voice cracked.
"I thought I was protecting the family."
Adrian turned away.
For a long moment, he said nothing.
Then he whispered:
"You were protecting the wrong person."
Marcus nodded.
"I know."
Elise watched the exchange.
She understood that Marcus had made a serious mistake.
But she also saw the shame in his face.
Adrian looked back.
"Did you know Daniel was being harmed?"
"No."
"Did you know about the payments?"
"No."
Adrian studied him.
Then said:
"You're going to tell investigators everything."
Marcus nodded.
"I will."
Adrian exhaled.
"And after that, we'll discuss whether you still have a job."
Marcus lowered his head.
"Understood."
Elise looked at Adrian.
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For the first time, she saw him choose accountability over loyalty.
And something in her heart shifted.
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