Page 231 of The Rebel Billionaire

“They knew your father was onto them, although he was still trying to ascertain who was at the top of the pyramid when he died.”

“But surely this is circumstantial at best,” I say.

Mitch smiles. “In isolation, but think Crawley, your dad’s files, evidence from other cases previously not linked, and now this photo… This is the missing piece of the jigsaw, Harper. It ties Montague to the syndicate.”

“There’s more you’re not telling me,” I say.

“The paint.”

I close my eyes, knowing what they’re about to say.

“The paint on Dad’s car from the accident?”

Mitch nods.

“Belongs to⁠—”

I draw in an unsteady breath that turns into a sob.

Dan squeezes my hand harder, offering me his strength. I’m not sure how long we sit here.

“What now?”

“Now you can go home,” Dan says.

CHAPTER 69

ALEX

It’s been four days since Brooke walked out of my office, and I’ve done nothing.

I’ve sat on the evidence, unable to report my findings and making excuses to myself because I don’t want to admit she’s got under my skin.

Elise is still unreachable. After Paris Fashion Week, she requested some vacation time, and I suspect she’s been hiking in the mountains with Giovanni Esposito, which is making her almost impossible to track down.

A knock sounds on my door.

“Hey,” Elise says, popping her head in. “Nolan said you wanted to see me?”

“You’re back,” I say, earning a frown. I wave her in, hating what I’m about to do, but needing to know for sure.

If what Brooke said is true, that Elise knew what was going on and lied to me, what else has she lied to me about? I hate that I’m questioning myself and everyone I care about.

“No Brooke?” she says, motioning to the empty desk outside my door. “Did she have a lovely time at her friend’s wedding?”

I shake my head, hoping my voice holds.

“She’s gone,” I say.

Elise’s brows furrow. “She’s what? When?”

She steps inside and closes the door.

“Is she coming back?”

I’m surprised at how invested she appears.

“It was Brooke.”