“Oh, don’t act like I’ve committed some terrible betrayal, Dad! You’re the one who had an affair and faked your own death so you could run off with your mistress!
How could you?”
Dad hung his head. “I fell in love…all I wanted to do was be with Nicky. I was done with the pressure of tackling corporate problems and having to smooth talk investors all the time.
I’ve worked hard! I deserve a chance to relax. This was the only way I could do that.”
“So you took out a huge amount in life insurance for your new life, bribed the coroner to falsify your death certificate and cause of death, and had all of us gather around an empty casket to mourn you!”
Ryan grabbed the front of Dad’s shirt.
He pulled back his fist, but Detective Bradshaw pushed him back. “Much as I understand your desire to hit him, sir, rest assured that the confession you just got out of your father will be more than enough to ensure justice is served. And it’s only a matter of time before we catch his accomplice.
Ryan let out a deep breath and looked Dad in the eye. “‘A man should do what is right, not follow his own selfish interests.’ You taught me that, Dad. I’m sorry you couldn’t follow your own principles, but I hope you realize that your failure to do so is what led to your downfall.”
Ryan turned away and pushed the door open.
“You can take him away now, Detective Bradshaw,” he said. “I don’t think I can stand to be near him for one second longer.”
