“And Ethan?” I asked.

“Ethan will be dealt with,” Brandon said. “The police reports in your hand will ensure he goes away for life.”

“And your mother?”

“She will be forced to retire,” Brandon said, a dark gleam in his eye. “She will hand the reins of the company to me to avoid a public trial.”

It was a cold, calculated coup.

He was using his sister-in-law’s death, and my daughter’s suffering, to secure his inheritance.

“I need to see Emily first,” I said.

“No,” Brandon said. “The drive first.”

“I don’t have it on me,” I said.

“I didn’t think you did,” he said. “You’re too smart for that.”

He checked his watch, a gold Rolex that caught the light.

“I’ll give you until midnight tomorrow,” he said.

“Meet me at the old boat house by the river,” he added.

“Come alone,” he said. “And bring the drive.”

I looked at the window behind me.

The rain had started again, tapping softly against the glass.

“If you’re lying to me, Brandon,” I said, “I will come for you next.”