Chapter 9 - THE TRUTH ABOUT VICTOR HAYES
The investigation uncovered a network of old financial crimes.
False ownership transfers.
Intimidation.
Coerced signatures.
Victor Hayes had built his empire through fraud as well as violence.
Rosa had discovered evidence.
She tried to report it.
Victor had her confined and convinced Gabriel she was dead.
Years later, Rosa escaped the facility and disappeared into the South End.
She lived quietly.
Worked odd jobs.
Helped neighbors.
And spent every day hoping her son was alive.
Gabriel read the records.
He felt sick.
His entire childhood had been built on lies.
He looked at Norah.
“I became him.”
She shook her head.
“You became someone who learned from him.”
Gabriel looked down.
“What's the difference?”
Norah considered.
“What you choose next.”
He stared.
May you like
Then nodded.
For the first time, he understood that inheritance wasn't destiny.
