“Silver Crown Holdings?”
“Yes.”
I knew that name too.
Silver Crown Holdings was a shell company connected to several investigations involving distressed properties. It purchased homes from elderly owners at a fraction of their value, then resold them through hidden partnerships.
I photographed every bruise again, making sure the date and time were visible. Then I recorded the rope marks around her wrists from several angles.
Mother looked away.
“I must look terrible.”
“You look brave.”
“I don’t feel brave.”
“Most brave people don’t.”
A knock struck the bathroom door.
Three sharp taps.
Mother gasped and grabbed my arm.
“Elena?” Julian called. “Everything all right?”
I steadied my voice.
“She felt dizzy. I’m helping her.”
The handle moved.
I had locked it.
“Why is the door locked?”
“Because she’s bathing.”
Silence followed.
Then Chloe spoke from the hallway.
“She doesn’t need help bathing.”
Mother’s nails pressed into my wrist.
