Chapter 10 - THE FALL OF RAYMOND SLOANE
The investigation expanded rapidly.
Financial records connected Raymond Sloane to fraudulent construction payments.
Witnesses came forward.
Former employees described pressure to falsify reports.
The fire that killed Daniel Mercer was reopened for review.
Investigators also examined the attack on Alice's apartment.
Victor cooperated with the investigation.
He turned over records.
He authorized independent audits.
And he accepted that his own business practices would face scrutiny.
Sloane was arrested months later.
The charges included financial crimes and offenses connected to witness intimidation.
Further proceedings concerning Daniel's death continued.
Alice watched the news report from her kitchen.
Ben sat beside her.
"Is that the bad man?"
She nodded.
"He's accused of doing bad things."
Ben considered.
"Will he go to jail?"
"I don't know yet."
Victor stood near the window.
Alice looked at him.
"How do you feel?"
He took a long breath.
"Relieved."
Then he shook his head.
"And ashamed."
"Why?"
"Because I trusted him for twenty years."
Alice studied him.
"Trusting someone isn't the same as approving what they do."
Victor looked at her.
"No. But refusing to look closely can make you responsible for what you allow."
She nodded.
For a long moment, they stood in silence.
Then Ben spoke.
"Can we have dinner?"
Alice laughed softly.
Victor turned.
"What would you like?"
Ben grinned.
"Beef stew."
Victor smiled.
May you like
"Excellent choice."
And for the first time in years, the three of them ate together without fear.
