The company referred the evidence to the appropriate authorities and cooperated with the ensuing legal process. The executives involved were suspended, and investigators continued building the case.
There were no dramatic handcuffs by noon on January 2.
There was something more important: a documented investigation that could withstand scrutiny.
And it began with a message from a mother who had needed fifty dollars.
Chapter Five: A Second Chance
Clara entered Mercer Tower for her first formal meeting on January 12.
She wore the only navy blazer she owned, a simple blouse, and shoes she had polished the night before. Lily was staying with a trusted neighbor, and Clara had packed her diaper bag as carefully as if she were preparing for a long journey.
The building rose above the surrounding streets, its glass exterior reflecting the pale winter sunlight.
At the reception desk, she gave her name.
Within minutes, she was escorted to a conference room where two independent investigators waited.
