Chapter 7 - THE MAN WHO WANTED THE HARBOR
Charles Vane was sixty-two.
A real estate developer with a polished public image.
He donated to hospitals.
Sponsored political campaigns.
And appeared regularly in business magazines discussing urban renewal.
But the documents in Emilio Navarro's metal case told a different story.
Vane had acquired several waterfront properties through companies that appeared connected to old port corruption.
Some transactions involved forged records.
Others suggested bribery.
And several names linked the scheme to Matteo's father.
Ren met with an independent attorney, Evelyn Brooks.
Evelyn reviewed the documents.
Then looked up.
“These are potentially significant.”
Ren nodded.
“What should we do?”
“Preserve the originals. Make verified copies. And refer the relevant evidence to the proper authorities.”
Ren looked toward Matteo.
He nodded.
Evelyn continued.
“We also need to establish the trust's ownership and protect it from unauthorized transfers.”
Ren swallowed.
“Can Derek still access it?”
“Not if we act quickly and the legal records support your position.”
That afternoon, Evelyn filed the necessary notices and initiated proceedings to challenge the questionable authorization.
Meanwhile, Matteo received a message from an old associate.
Charles Vane wanted to meet.
Matteo agreed only after arranging a secure, documented meeting through counsel.
Vane arrived at a downtown office wearing a charcoal suit.
He smiled.
“Matteo.”
“Charles.”
Vane sat.
“I hear you've taken an interest in Emilio Navarro's granddaughter.”
Matteo's expression remained cold.
“She has legal rights that deserve protection.”
Vane laughed.
“Legal rights are flexible.”
“Not to her.”
Vane leaned forward.
“There's a lot of money at stake.”
Matteo said nothing.
Vane continued.
“Walk away. Let the girl sell the property. Everyone wins.”
Matteo looked at him.
“Except the people your family cheated.”
Vane's smile faded.
He stood.
“You're making a mistake.”
Matteo remained seated.
“No.”
His voice lowered.
“I'm correcting one.”
When Vane left, Matteo called Evelyn.
“He's nervous.”
May you like
Evelyn replied:
“Good. Nervous people make mistakes.”
