Chapter 8 - The Attorney Who Knew
Douglas Vane had represented the Gable family for twenty-five years.
He drafted their trusts.
Silenced former employees.
Settled lawsuits before accusations reached court.
Brad believed Vane could make Emily disappear legally.
The original plan did not involve physical violence.
They intended to force Emily to sign an emergency governance transfer.
Vane had prepared a medical declaration claiming she suffered severe stress and impaired judgment.
Two physicians were ready to support it.
If Emily refused, Brad would activate board provisions removing her from operational control.
But Emily discovered the plan early.
She copied communications.
She placed recorders in her handbag and office.
Then she attempted to leave the mansion with the evidence.
Brad followed her outside.
Mrs. Gable carried one of Brad’s golf clubs.
Vane claimed the club was meant to frighten her.
When Emily ran toward her car, Brad grabbed her handbag.
The strap tore.
Mrs. Gable swung.
The club struck Emily near the shoulder and broke against the car door.
Emily fell.
Vane checked her pulse.
She was alive.
Brad wanted to call an ambulance.
Mrs. Gable refused.
An emergency report would expose the coercion.
They placed Emily inside Vane’s SUV.
He drove her away.
“Where?” Margaret asked.
Vane stared at the floor.
Mrs. Gable answered for him.
“You have no authority to interrogate anyone.”
Margaret’s phone vibrated.
She read the message.
Then looked at Vane.
“Your vehicle just crossed a toll camera forty minutes ago.”
Vane’s head snapped up.
May you like
He had not driven it.
Someone else had Emily.
