Chapter 9 - The Man Behind the Seattle Deal
Thomas Benton was wealthy, respected, and famous for philanthropy.
According to Emma, he had once been Charles’s silent business partner.
Evergreen began as an off-book account connected to both men. Charles eventually tried to escape. Benton continued building influence.
Sarah discovered the connection years before Nathan ever heard about the Seattle acquisition.
“Benton planned ahead,” Emma said.
Nathan called Claire.
“Freeze the deal.”
“Already doing it.”
“You didn’t ask why.”
“I’ve had an educational Christmas.”
Emma showed him another photograph.
Benton standing beside Margaret two months earlier.
Margaret eventually admitted meeting him. Benton convinced her Nathan’s expansion plans threatened the company. He promised to protect Colewell if she helped establish temporary control.
Investigators discovered reports portraying Nathan as emotionally unstable after Sarah’s death. Travel records showed his absences. Statements suggested he neglected Lily.
The cruelty became clear.
Margaret had mistreated Lily while helping build a case that Nathan was an unfit father.
If authorities removed Lily, Margaret could control Sarah’s trust.
Benton could influence Colewell.
Nathan sat silently.
Outside, Lily built a snowman with Emma.
He was learning that family could not be repaired by forcing closeness. It had to be offered.
Federal investigators questioned Benton. Margaret faced charges connected to fraud and child endangerment. Aaron cooperated while facing consequences. Vanessa was investigated for her own actions. Charles surrendered on his old crimes.
That evening Lily asked, “Does Grandma love me?”
Nathan answered carefully.
“I think she believes she does.”
“That’s confusing.”
“Yes.”
“Mommy loved me?”
“With everything she had.”
“Do you?”
Nathan kissed her hair.
“With everything I have.”
At 11:58 p.m., Thomas Benton sent Nathan a message.
YOU HAVE THE WRONG ENEMY.
A photograph was attached.
It showed Margaret, Rebecca, Charles, and Emma outside the mansion the night Sarah died.
But through Sarah’s upstairs window stood a fifth person.
Claire enhanced the image.
“Nathan, I don’t recognize her.”
“Then what matters?”
“She’s wearing Margaret’s coat.”
May you like
Nathan stared.
Somebody had been dressed to look exactly like his mother.
