“You are asking me to investigate your husband’s family.”
“I am asking whether three women were forced to transfer money after marrying Ashford men.”
Mara studied Claire’s name.
“Do you believe Tyler is involved?”
“I believe he knew enough to lie.”
“Start with the women. Public records only.”
By noon, Tabitha found Claire Mercer living under her maiden name. Her sealed divorce file revealed one public sentence: Plaintiff alleges coercion, unlawful confinement, and fraudulent transfer.
Tabitha called her.
“Claire Mercer?”
“Who is asking?”
“Tabitha Vale Ashford.”
Silence.
Then Claire whispered, “You married Tyler?”
“Yes.”
“Leave the house before Friday.”
“How do you know about Friday?”
“Evelyn always chooses Friday. Banks are slower to reverse transfers over the weekend.”
“What happened to you?”
“They took my inheritance.”
“Who?”
“Evelyn designed it. Daniel signed it. Tyler witnessed it.”
Tabitha gripped the phone.
“Was your signature forged?”
“No. They made me sign.”
“How?”
“They said Daniel would be arrested for a debt he had hidden. Evelyn promised the transfer would save him.”
“Did it?”
“There was no debt.”
“Why didn’t you report them?”