Chapter 8 - The Ring
The diamond ring on Vanessa’s finger had cost twelve thousand dollars.
Michael claimed he paid cash from a bonus.
The truth was worse.
He used money borrowed against Claire’s life-insurance policy.
Claire discovered the loan after her father’s investigator found the jewelry-store receipt.
Michael had forged her electronic authorization.
The ring was not only evidence of betrayal.
It was purchased through a financial crime committed against his pregnant wife.
Vanessa slowly removed it.
Michael raised both hands.
“Don’t do this here.”
Vanessa looked at him with disbelief.
“You brought me here.”
Her voice remained quiet.
That frightened him more than anger would have.
Claire’s father stepped closer in case Claire became unsteady.
Claire felt pressure beneath her ribs.
The baby moved sharply.
She breathed through it.
Michael noticed and softened his voice.
“Claire, you need to sit down.”
May you like
She looked directly at him.
“You lost the right to pretend you’re protecting me.”
