Chapter 8 - THE BANKER WITH TWO FACES
Preston Hayes had built his reputation on discretion.
He was charming.
Educated.
Well connected.
His father chaired one of the oldest private banks in New York.
His family name opened doors.
But beneath the polished image, Preston had been running a dangerous financial operation.
Northstar Harbor Development was only one piece.
Through a network of companies, he had acquired properties near a proposed infrastructure corridor.
The purchases were financed using misleading valuations and questionable guarantees.
Gallagher Holdings provided the appearance of legitimate development expertise.
Victoria provided a nominal ownership structure.
Charles provided access to assets.
And Audrey?
Audrey provided the credentials that made the transactions appear properly authorized.
She hadn't known.
That was what made her useful.
Preston sat in his office overlooking Central Park when his attorney arrived.
"We have a problem."
Preston looked up.
"Audrey?"
The attorney nodded.
"She's retained Evelyn Brooks."
Preston swore.
"That woman is dangerous."
"Which one?"
"Both."
The attorney placed a folder on the desk.
"Audrey has preserved authentication records."
Preston stared.
"How?"
"She's better at her job than you assumed."
Preston leaned back.
For years, he'd treated Audrey as a background figure.
A quiet woman in sensible clothes.
Always tired.
Always working.
He had never imagined she might be the person who brought everything down.
"What about Mateo Santoro?"
The attorney hesitated.
"He's involved."
Preston's face hardened.
"Of course he is."
He looked toward the window.
Mateo had been asking questions about Antonio Santoro's death for years.
Now he had found a witness who understood the financial structure.
Preston picked up his phone.
"Call Charles."
The attorney frowned.
"Why?"
"Tell him Audrey needs to come home."
"And if she refuses?"
May you like
Preston's smile was cold.
"Then we remind her what happens to people who betray their families."
