I’m not going to pretend I do.
But an agreement used to conceal coercion or unlawful conduct is not automatically untouchable simply because expensive lawyers drafted it.
You need independent counsel to review exactly what was signed and how.”
Mara looked almost startled.
“You aren’t going to call one of your people and tell them what to do?”
“I’ll give you names.
You choose.
Someone who represents you, not me.”
For the first time since entering the study, some of the tension left her shoulders.
Dante’s phone buzzed again.
This time it was a message from Luca.
Gavin Vale had apparently learned someone was examining archived records.
He was calling.
Mara saw Dante read the message.
“It’s him?”
“Yes.”
The phone began ringing almost immediately.
Gavin Vale’s name appeared on the screen.
Mara stared at it.
Dante did not touch the phone.
“What do you want me to do?”
The ringing continued.
Mara’s breathing changed, but she did not retreat.
“Answer.”
Dante picked up.
“Vale.”
Gavin did not bother with pleasantries.
“I don’t know what game you’re playing, Veyron, but you’ve crossed a line.”
Dante glanced at Mara.
She stood beside the desk now, listening.
“Which line?” Dante asked.
“My private records.
My divorce.
My former wife.”
Mara’s face hardened at the last phrase.
Dante said, “Mara isn’t your property.”
A short silence followed.
Then Gavin laughed.
“You married her three weeks ago.
Don’t pretend you know her.”
Dante said nothing.
Gavin continued.
“She’s fragile.
She gets confused.
She remembers things dramatically.
That’s why the divorce had to be handled carefully.”
Mara closed her eyes.
There it was.
The same strategy from the recording.
Unstable.
Confused.
Dramatic.
Dante watched her hear the old cage being rebuilt in real time.
Then Mara opened her eyes and held out her hand.
Dante gave her the phone.
“Gavin,” she said.
