Chapter 3 - The Death File
Arthur took the medical folder.
Every page supported one conclusion:
Claire was legally incapable of managing her assets.
A second document declared her missing and presumed dead after a private aircraft incident over the Atlantic.
There was no passenger manifest.
No confirmed wreckage.
Only statements from Daniel and two executives employed by him.
“You created a death without a body,” Arthur said.
Daniel’s voice remained controlled.
“I followed counsel’s advice.”
Claire looked toward the white lilies.
“You bought flowers before anyone searched for me.”
Silence.
The memorial had been scheduled less than three weeks after her supposed disappearance.
Old-money guests had called it dignified.
The newspapers called Daniel brave.
No one called the house staff, even though Leah had reported hearing sounds behind the portrait for five nights.
Arthur turned toward her.
“You heard Claire before tonight?”
Leah lowered her eyes.
“Yes.”
“And you said nothing?”
“I told Mr. Vale.”
Daniel’s estate manager.
“He said the noises came from old pipes.”
“Then?”
“I emailed Daniel’s office.”
Daniel stared at her.
“I never received it.”
Leah removed her phone.
The message had been opened.
A reply followed:
Staff members spreading distressing rumors will be terminated without reference.
Arthur read it.
Daniel’s face changed.
“That was sent by my assistant.”
Claire looked at him.
“You always have someone poorer to blame.”
Then Leah revealed she had kept a nightly log.
Three knocks at 1:10 a.m.
Three knocks at 2:45 a.m.
Three knocks whenever Daniel entered the private study.
May you like
Claire had not been hidden randomly.
She had been placed where she could hear every meeting about her death.
