Chapter 7 – Chapter 7 – The Blue File Hidden Behind the Study Wall

Vanessa waited in the mansion’s study. She insisted she had acted to protect the family when the company was close to collapse. Alexander demanded to know whether she had forged Richard’s signature. She avoided the question.

Dana noticed Vanessa repeatedly looking toward a portrait of Eleanor. Behind it was a narrow hidden compartment. Inside lay a blue file containing the original authorization, bank instructions, and a statement giving Vanessa temporary control over trust assets if Richard became unable to manage them.

The signature appeared genuine at first glance, but Brooks recognized irregularities. A forensic examiner would need to compare it with verified samples.

Vanessa finally admitted that Charles, Alexander’s late uncle, had arranged the paperwork. She claimed Charles told her Richard would eventually approve the transfers. Alexander asked why she had hidden the file.

“Because the transfers were not authorized,” she said.

Brooks sealed the documents as evidence. Vanessa warned Alexander that handing over the file would destroy their marriage. He answered that a marriage built on forged documents was already broken.

After Vanessa left the room, Dana found a photograph tucked behind the file. It showed Charles meeting Martin Voss, the chairman of the bank that had approved Alexander’s largest loan.

Brooks recognized Voss immediately. If the bank had knowingly accepted false property documents, the consequences could reach far beyond the family. Alexander looked at the photograph and realized the mansion might have been used as security without its owner’s permission.