Chapter 7 - THE SECRET INSIDE THE BLACK CASE
The laboratory results arrived on Monday.
Investigators found that one tablet in the medication case contained an undeclared substance inconsistent with Antonio's prescription.
The substance was capable of triggering a severe reaction in someone with his medical history.
The finding did not, by itself, prove who had placed it there.
But it confirmed that the case had been compromised.
Antonio listened as Inspector O'Connell explained.
He remained still.
When she finished, he asked, “Could this have been accidental?”
“It's possible in theory,” she said. “But the packaging discrepancies and other evidence make deliberate tampering a serious line of inquiry.”
Antonio nodded.
Then he asked, “What happens now?”
“We follow the evidence.”
For a man accustomed to controlling outcomes, the answer was almost unbearable.
That afternoon, Luca called.
Antonio answered.
“Cousin.”
Luca sounded cheerful.
“I heard you're recovering.”
“Yes.”
“Good. The family has been worried.”
Antonio looked toward the window.
“Have they?”
Luca laughed.
“Of course.”
Then he said, “We should discuss the investment agreement when you're back.”
Antonio closed his eyes.
“Not now.”
“Antonio, the opportunity won't wait forever.”
“Neither will the police.”
Silence.
Luca's voice changed.
“What does that mean?”
Antonio looked toward Marco.
“It means I'm not signing anything.”
He ended the call.
Across Europe, Luca stared at his phone.
For the first time, he understood that Antonio was no longer merely suspicious.
May you like
He was investigating.
And Luca knew there was evidence he hadn't destroyed.
