Chapter 2: The Woman Behind the Mask
Hospital security escorted Isabella into a private conference room.
She expected Marcus to follow.
Instead...
Detectives arrived.
One placed a tablet on the table.
"We'd like to discuss tonight."
Isabella smiled confidently.
"My attorney will be here soon."
"Excellent."
The detective opened another file.
"Perhaps your attorney can explain these."
Printed photographs covered the table.
Hotel receipts.
Private flights.
Luxury jewelry.
Bank transfers.
At first Isabella looked confused.
Then terrified.
The detective continued.
"Our investigation began weeks ago."
"Not because of tonight."
"Because someone has been stealing from the Thorne Foundation."
Marcus, standing outside the room with his attorney, looked stunned.
"There was more?"
The detective nodded.
"We believe tonight wasn't spontaneous."
"It was escalation."
Meanwhile, Dr. Rossi met Marcus outside the operating room.
"Your wife is stable."
Marcus closed his eyes in relief.
"The baby?"
"The baby's heartbeat is strong."
"But Khloe needs rest."
Dr. Rossi folded his arms.
"My niece trusted you."
Marcus couldn't answer.
"You didn't push her."
"No."
"But you invited danger into her life."
Every word was deserved.
Hours later, Khloe finally woke.
Marcus entered quietly.
She looked exhausted.
He sat beside her bed.
"I'm sorry."
She didn't answer.
"I watched the footage."
Still silence.
"I know the truth."
Khloe slowly turned toward him.
"The truth didn't start tonight."
"It started the first time you believed her instead of me."
May you like
Marcus lowered his head.
She was right.
