Martin Hale stepped forward. “Forensic summary. Over thirty-two months, Mr. Reed diverted business and nonprofit funds for personal use, concealed transfers through falsified coding, and most recently obtained a home equity loan in the amount of five hundred thousand dollars using a forged signature. Those funds were routed into a condominium in Stamford. Deed holder: Miss Chloe Bennett.”
Chloe went white.
Hale held up a photograph. “For completeness, the pendant currently worn by Miss Bennett was purchased with funds from a nonprofit subsidiary addressing childhood hunger. So, Miss Bennett, what you are wearing tonight cost roughly one hundred and forty-six children their dinners for a month.”
Chloe’s hand flew to her throat. She tore the necklace off so hard the clasp snapped and stones scattered across the floor.
“I didn’t know,” she cried. “He told me they were separated. He told me she was abusive. He told me—”
Evelyn’s voice was almost kind.
“He told you whatever would make you useful. That has always been one of his better skills.”
Then came the final blade.