An hour later, Richard walked into the family boardroom expecting a routine business meeting.
He stopped in his tracks when he saw two police officers standing near the door.
Evelyn sat at the head of the long conference table with Mr. Harrison beside her.
Maya sat quietly in a chair near the window, holding her gold locket tightly.
Richard tried to maintain a cool expression as he adjusted his navy necktie.
Richard: What is the meaning of having police officers inside our private home?
Evelyn: Your long game of lies and illegal theft ends today, Richard.
Richard: I have done nothing except protect this family business for fifteen years!
Mr. Harrison: We have uncovered the forged inheritance documents you signed six years ago.
Richard: Those documents are completely legal and were approved by external auditors!
Officer Miller: Mr. Vance, we have a warrant for your arrest regarding financial fraud.
Richard: This is ridiculous, Evelyn, you are taking the word of a street child!
Evelyn: I am taking the word of official bank records and my own heart.
Richard: She does not deserve a single penny of our family mansion estate!
Evelyn: She deserves everything because she is Sarah's daughter and my true heir.
Richard: You are making the biggest mistake of your entire life, sister!
Officer Miller: Please turn around and keep your hands behind your back, sir.
The police officer placed heavy steel handcuffs around Richard's wrists with a click.
Richard glared bitterly at Maya as he was led slowly out of the room.
Maya pulled her mother's gold locket closer to her chest as he walked past.
Evelyn took a deep breath as the boardroom door closed firmly behind the officers.
The heavy weight of past lies seemed to lift from the room instantly.
She walked toward her granddaughter and put a gentle hand on her shoulder.
Evelyn: The bad people are gone now, and you are completely safe here.
Maya: Do you think my mom can see us right now, Grandma?
Evelyn: I know she is watching us with a bright smile on her face.