Chapter 14 - What He Thought He Deserved
Garrick’s lawyer asked for a recess. When they returned, Garrick agreed to identify the additional account and authorize a preservation request in exchange for the possibility of cooperation being considered later. Natalie made it clear that no promise of immunity was being offered. His information would be verified, and the authorities would decide what it meant.
The account held less than two million dollars. The rest had covered business debt, property purchases, and personal expenses. Garrick insisted he planned to repay everything when his development deal closed. Natalie asked if he had told the beneficiary.
He said nothing.
He had built a life on money he knew he hadn’t earned, calling it necessity until he mistook the excuse for a right.
“Did you know about the Christmas gifts?” I asked.
His face tightened. “That has nothing to do with this.”
“It has everything to do with who you are when nobody makes you answer for yourself.”
He said Mom wanted to teach Lily and Toby not to expect things. He claimed he had disagreed but didn’t want to start a fight. I remembered him raising his glass while my daughter stared at an empty patch of carpet.
“You didn’t stay out of it,” I said. “You joined in. You made a joke because you knew she was hurting them and you thought it was funny.”
For once, he did not deny it. “I’m sorry.”
The words landed between us, too small to carry twenty-one years.
“I believe you’re sorry you got caught,” I said. “I don’t know if you’re sorry you did it.”
He flinched. Natalie ended the meeting when his lawyer began objecting to the questions. As I stood, Garrick spoke again.
“Mom says Grandpa left a second letter. One that was supposed to be read if the trust was ever challenged.”
I stopped.
“Where is it?”
“I don’t know. Martin had it. Mom said it would ruin her if anyone read it.”
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That night, Natalie called with an update. Martin Vale had been located at a private clinic outside the city after a reported panic attack. He had asked to speak with investigators.
He had also requested to speak with me.
