“She is not here,” Ethan lied.

“Her shift ended an hour ago.”

“Her car is still in the driveway,” Daniel said.

“She went with the driver to pick up supplies from the local office,” Ethan said smoothly.

“She will not be back tonight.”

Daniel stared at Ethan, his jaw tight.

He seemed to be weighing the lie.

“Fine,” Daniel said. “But tomorrow morning, I want her termination papers on my desk.”

“And Vance needs reassurance.”

Dr. Vance stepped forward, his wet coat rustling.

“I only want what is best for the project, Ethan,” Vance said.

“And for Claire’s memory.”

“Of course,” Ethan said.

“Let us go to the study,” Ethan added. “We can review the final investor terms.”

He guided them away from the foyer.

I heard their footsteps fade down the corridor toward the west wing.

I let out a shaky breath.

My knees felt weak.

The twelve million dollars explained why Daniel was so desperate.

It explained why Dr. Vance was here, in the middle of the night, in a wet coat.

They were protecting the deal.

But what were they protecting Vance from?