Page 74 of Crude Heir

“Get in here,” Addler calls out.

Ezequiel trails behind us, as if he’d rather be anywhere else but here, and just missed his last opportunity. I can’t help but sympathize. I half wish I was making an escape along with him.

His phone buzzes in his shirt pocket. He checks the screen. “Let me get this.” He seizes the chance to step away.

Mr. Kelly and Addler stand as we enter a large study, the walls lined with an impressive array of books. The comfortable sitting area, clearly arranged for more business-oriented conversation, dominates the room.

Mr. Kelly smooths down his tie, the coat of his suit set aside for a more informal discussion. Part of me wants to reach out and take Derrick’s hand for comfort, though I’m not sure if it would be for his comfort or mine.

“Sir.” I manage a smile.

“Nicole,” he says warmly then turns to his son.

* * *

Derrick

The atmosphere in the large study is thick with tension, setting the stage for a confrontation long in the making. KeithKelly stands to greet us. His presence, as always, fills the room with an unspoken authority.

“Derrick,” he addresses me, sounding both relieved and fatigued. Taking a closer look, it seems that even the silver in his hair looks less vibrant now.

“Sir,” I respond, my voice measured, barely able to mask the underlying resentment. I could be speaking to a perfect stranger as I put Nicole’s computer bag down.

To his credit, he maintains his composure. “I understand you’ve been investigating the embezzlement issue,” he begins, as if he’s trying to downplay the severity.

“I’ve only became involved in the last few days.” I can’t hide my frustration as his nonchalance. “Nicole has spent countless hours chasing down the source so you can get your money back. At this point, the total goes well into the tens of millions.”

Keith shifts his gaze to Nicole, his expression softening with a note of gratitude. “Thank you, Nicole, for your dedication. You continue to produce the exemplary work that you’ve become known for.”

“I’m glad we could help, sir.” Nicole, always gracious, nods. “Everyone here has had a hand in reviewing cost going back to before the project started. Bill, Sage, and Ezequiel have been a tremendous help in locating the missing items. I’ve started putting together anything this Sunny Hearst touched, for further scrutiny.”

He looks across the four of us. “Thank you, all of you, for your time and efforts.” He takes a deep breath. “But I’ll ask you to stop your investigation.”

Nicole’s gaze finds mine, a mix of confusion and disappointment in her eyes. Unfortunately, I don’t have any more answers than she does. “Yes, sir.” She lowers her head as if she’s done something wrong.

If nothing else has pushed my temper past the breaking point, this has. I put my arm around her. “Listen here—”

“I’m aware of the situation,” Keith interjects, his gaze dropping to the floor for a second. Is he trying to figure out what to say? “I’ll be returning the funds to the account after one last bit of business,” he declares, his voice firm.

His statement sets me back on my heels. It’s just like Addler said; he’s keen to avoid any scandal that might arise from the theft. Even if it’s costing him a bundle.

Before I can process this, Simon Kelly storms into the room. His entrance is anything but subtle. His usual, haughty demeanor showing a blatant disregard for the gravity of the situation.

“I should have expected it,” he sneers. “The first thing you do is chip away more ofmyinheritance.” His words are laced with bitterness over his perceived loss.

My mother, ever the peacemaker, moves to stand beside Keith, placing a hand on his arm. “Please try to stay calm,” she urges gently. A reminder of his recent health scare.

“I swear, the only thing you care about is your precious company.” His lip curls. “I’m your son.” He slams his hand into his chest. “Youractualson.”

“Simon—”

“And you left me with yourwhore,” he says, overly emphasizing the word, “of an ex-wife.” His gaze slips to her. “Only to go to your next whore,” he spits out.

If he thinks I’m going to put up with his insult, tomymother, he’s a fucking lunatic. Before the word is done coming out of his mouth, I’m moving, anger propelling my actions.

“Simon!” Keith’s voice is a muted bellow somewhere in the background.

“Who was smart enough,” Simon continues, oblivious to the danger he’s in, “to pop out—”

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