Chapter 16 - The Hidden Phone
The purser removed the laptop bag and placed it in the galley for safekeeping during turbulence.
A muffled ringtone sounded from inside.
Adam’s visible phone remained on his tray.
Trinity looked at him.
“You have another phone?”
“It’s for international business.”
Dakota remembered months of strange behavior.
Adam sometimes disappeared into the garage for calls.
He kept one jacket locked in his office cabinet.
He often claimed the company prohibited him from discussing international suppliers on personal devices.
The purser asked Adam whether the hidden device contained a damaged battery or other safety concern.
“No.”
“Then it will remain secured until conditions improve.”
Adam’s jaw flexed.
The ringing stopped.
Seconds later, it began again.
Dakota could see a preview illuminate through the partially open bag.
MELISSA.
Adam closed his eyes.
Trinity spoke softly.
“She knows something went wrong.”
Dakota contacted the investigator through the crew tablet and reported the existence of the second phone.
He requested that no one access it without consent or legal authority.
Dakota followed the instruction.
She did not need to open it.
Adam’s reaction was evidence enough that it mattered.
After the turbulence passed, the bag was returned, but the purser documented the incident.
Adam immediately switched off the second phone.
Too late.
The call history would remain.
Trinity looked toward Dakota.
“What happens when we land?”
“You will be offered an attorney separate from the company.”
“And him?”
“I don’t know.”
Adam laughed bitterly.
“She knows. She wants you afraid.”
Dakota looked at Trinity.
“I will not promise an outcome I cannot control.”
That honesty mattered.
Adam had promised both women whatever kept them dependent.
Dakota promised only the truth.
Trinity nodded.
“I’ll cooperate.”
Adam’s face twisted.
“You’ll destroy your child’s future.”
Trinity placed one hand over her belly.
May you like
“No. I’m trying to save it.”
👉 Adam’s final defense collapsed when Trinity revealed she had recorded their hotel conversation the night before the flight.
