The forensic accountant traced most of the missing money to accounts Daniel still controlled. Under advice from his attorney, he returned what remained and surrendered his interest in the failed venture. The recovered amount did not cover everything, but it kept the company’s payroll intact and protected thirty-two families from paying for his decisions.
Our board removed him as manager. The findings were reported to the proper authorities, and I refused to use my position either to demand vengeance or purchase special mercy. Daniel eventually accepted a plea involving restitution, probation, and financial restrictions. He also signed a statement admitting that I had never been incompetent and that his attempt to seize control had been deliberate.
Claire provided her scans and testimony. She apologized to the employees in person, without asking them to reassure her. I did not restore her access to the trust, but I agreed to attend counseling with her after she began going alone. Accountability, I was learning, could leave a door unlocked without pretending nothing had happened.
When I returned home, the old key still turned. Inside, Thomas’s chair faced the dark television, and grief finally reached me without lawyers or ledgers standing in its way.