Chapter 12 - Ridgeline's Other Customer
The third voice belonged to a man named Peter Vale, a broker tied to Ridgeline Capital. Ortiz explained that financial investigators were looking into several complaints involving the same group. He couldn't share an active investigation, but he accepted the unedited recording and its chain-of-custody information.
My own lawyer insisted that I keep separate lanes separate: protect the kids, challenge the property filings, and let investigators establish what happened to the money. One dramatic discovery wouldn't solve all three.
Caleb called me from an unfamiliar number. I let Grace listen on speaker after he identified himself.
“I just want to see my children,” he said.
“We can arrange contact consistent with the court order,” Grace replied.
“Rebecca, don't hide behind a lawyer.”
I spoke only when Grace nodded. “I want Owen and Lily safe. I want Mom safe. I want you to tell the truth.”
There was a pause. “Vanessa pushed everything too far.”
“You participated.”
“You don't know what I was trying to prevent.”
“Then explain it to the people investigating.”
His breathing grew harsh. “If I go down, she's taking all of us with her.”
The line died.
That afternoon, the court granted temporary protective provisions based on the evidence presented, with further hearings scheduled and carefully defined contact arrangements. It was relief, not victory. Every piece would be challenged.
Tasha drove us to a playground after dinner. Owen stood at the top of a little slide staring at the ground.
“It's safe,” I said. “I'll catch you.”
He slid down and landed laughing in my arms. It was the first unguarded laugh I'd heard from him since coming home.
Then my phone rang.
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The caller was a woman named Rachel Vale. She said she was Peter's wife.
“I don't want to talk about my husband,” she whispered. “I want to talk about the child they were planning to use next.”
