Chapter 6 - THE WOMAN WHO REFUSED TO DISAPPEAR
Antonio offered Evelyn a private flight home.
She refused.
He offered a security escort.
She refused that too.
Then he offered to pay for an attorney.
Evelyn stared at him across the hospital visitor room.
“Mr. Vitelli, you need to stop.”
Antonio looked surprised.
“I'm trying to help.”
“I know.”
“Then why won't you let me?”
She folded her arms.
“Because every time someone connected to you offers me something, I lose another piece of control over my own life.”
Antonio was silent.
Evelyn continued.
“I want my job back. I want the investigation completed. And I want to know why someone is trying to blame me for saving you.”
He studied her.
Then nodded.
“Fair.”
She exhaled.
After a moment, Antonio said, “Would you accept help finding an independent lawyer? Someone who doesn't work for me?”
Evelyn considered.
“Yes.”
He nodded.
“Then that's what I'll arrange.”
The attorney was a woman named Claire Donovan, an aviation-law specialist based in Dublin.
She met Evelyn the following morning.
After reviewing the documents, Claire said, “Your employer can investigate the incident, but you have rights.”
Evelyn leaned forward.
“Can they fire me?”
“They can take employment action only within the applicable law and contract. We'll make sure your account is properly documented.”
Evelyn nodded.
Claire continued.
“The medical records and crew reports appear to support that you followed emergency procedures under professional guidance.”
Evelyn felt her shoulders loosen.
For the first time in days, someone was discussing facts instead of rumors.
That evening, Antonio called.
“How did it go?”
Evelyn smiled faintly.
“Better.”
“Good.”
She hesitated.
Then asked, “Why did you become involved in the family business?”
Antonio was quiet.
“My father.”
“Did you want it?”
A long pause.
“No.”
Evelyn looked toward the dark window.
“Then why stay?”
Antonio answered softly.
“Because I thought leaving would make everything worse.”
May you like
Evelyn considered that.
Then said, “Sometimes staying does.”
