Chapter 11 - THE TRUTH ABOUT CHARLES BROOKS
The most painful discovery came from Charles Brooks's private correspondence.
Ethan had always believed his father was a brilliant businessman.
Strict.
Demanding.
Sometimes ruthless.
But fundamentally honorable.
The documents told a more complicated story.
Charles had received warnings about Daniel Reed's financial misconduct.
He had chosen not to investigate publicly.
Instead, he allowed Daniel to handle the matter internally.
Why?
Because exposing the fraud would have damaged the company before a major expansion.
Charles feared losing investors.
He feared scandal.
And he feared admitting that his trusted financial officer had deceived him.
The decision had consequences.
David Carter was discredited.
The missing money remained hidden.
And Daniel's influence grew.
Ethan sat alone in his father's study.
He stared at the old photographs.
His father shaking hands with politicians.
Standing beside restaurant openings.
Smiling at charity galas.
Then he looked at David Carter's letter.
Innocent people will be blamed.
Ethan closed his eyes.
His father had been warned.
And he had looked away.
That evening, Ethan met Mia.
He brought copies of the correspondence.
She read them slowly.
Then looked up.
“Your father knew.”
Ethan nodded.
“He knew there were serious allegations.”
Mia's eyes filled.
“And he let mine take the blame.”
Ethan swallowed.
“Yes.”
For a moment, Mia couldn't speak.
Then she whispered:
“My mother died waiting for someone to admit that.”
Ethan looked down.
“I know.”
She shook her head.
“No, Ethan. You don't.”
May you like
He accepted the words.
Because she was right.
