Chapter 7 - THE NETWORK
Federal investigators moved quickly.
She almost didn't open the door.
When she finally did, he looked different.
There was no arrogance in his expression.
Only confusion.
"I heard about the investigation."
Maya crossed her arms.
"What do you want?"
"I want to know what's happening."
"You should ask your mother."
Daniel looked away.
"She won't tell me anything."
"Then perhaps you should start asking better questions."
He stepped inside.
"I never knew they were connected to anything illegal."
Maya stared at him.
"That's what everyone says when the truth comes out."
Daniel looked at her.
"I was wrong about you."
Maya's expression remained cold.
"You were."
"I should have defended you."
"You should have done more than that."
He lowered his head.
"I know."
Maya walked toward the window.
"I spent years trying to earn your family's approval."
Daniel said nothing.
"And you watched."
"I was afraid of my mother."
Maya turned.
"Then you weren't ready to be my husband."
The words hurt him.
But he didn't argue.
Because they were true.
Before leaving, Daniel stopped.
"Did you really find your father?"
Maya nodded.
"His name was Alexander Hawthorne."
Daniel's face changed.
"My mother knew that name."
Maya froze.
"What?"
May you like
Daniel looked frightened.
"She once told me never to mention him."
