Chapter 6 - THE FINANCIAL ADVISER WITH TWO FACES
Nicholas Vane had worked for Damian Russo for eleven years.
He was precise.
Polite.
And seemingly loyal.
He managed investments, reviewed contracts, and supervised financial structures connected to several Russo businesses.
Damian trusted him.
That trust had made Nicholas dangerous.
Victor brought Damian a report.
“Sir, we've identified irregular transfers.”
Damian looked up.
“How much?”
“Potentially several million dollars across multiple entities.”
Damian's expression hardened.
“Where?”
“Accounts connected to Vane-controlled companies.”
Damian stood.
“Bring him in.”
Victor hesitated.
“Sir, there's another issue.”
He placed a document on the desk.
Damian examined it.
A trust transfer.
Evelyn's name.
Her signature.
Nicholas Vane as witness.
Damian stared.
“What is this?”
“We believe Mrs. Russo's trust interests were targeted.”
Damian's blood ran cold.
“Evelyn?”
Victor nodded.
“Her father's assets.”
Damian looked at the forged signature.
Then understood.
Nicholas hadn't merely been stealing from him.
He had been using Evelyn's position in the family.
And someone had helped him obtain information.
Someone close to her.
Damian called Lydia.
She answered immediately.
“Damian?”
“Did you give Nicholas Vane information about Evelyn's trust?”
Silence.
“Lydia.”
She swallowed.
“He said it was necessary.”
“For what?”
“He said Evelyn was hiding money from you.”
Damian closed his eyes.
“And you believed him?”
Lydia began crying.
“I thought I was helping you.”
Damian's voice turned cold.
“Did you give him documents?”
She hesitated.
“Yes.”
“How many?”
“I don't know.”
Damian stared at the wall.
He'd asked Lydia to report on Evelyn because he didn't trust his wife.
And Lydia had used that access to betray her own sister.
That evening, Damian contacted his attorney.
He ordered an independent review.
He preserved the records.
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And for the first time, he understood that the most dangerous person in his organization might not be an enemy.
It might be someone he'd invited into his home.
