My mother had left voting control to me.
For two years, I worked quietly with lawyers, auditors, and federal investigators.
We uncovered inflated vendor contracts.
Luxury vacations billed as “business development.”
Mason’s ski trips hidden under fake consulting expenses.
Patricia’s shopping deliveries labeled as “executive equipment.”
This Aspen trip was supposed to be the final test.
I deliberately allowed Patricia one more chance to use the company account.
I wanted to see how far she would go.
She went all the way.
My phone buzzed.
**Unauthorized upgrades confirmed. Executive account used. Passenger Patricia Vale checked nine bags under corporate exemption. One bag flagged for undeclared restricted battery packs. Captain notified.**
I closed my eyes.
Of course.
Patricia had handed me the bag containing the problem.
A flight attendant stopped beside my row.
“Ms. Bennett?”
Several passengers looked over.
“Yes?”
“The captain has asked that you remain available. There may be a short delay.”
