Chloe laughed.
“She does paperwork for the state and acts like she runs the whole justice department.”
I calmly buttered my toast.
What they didn’t know was that my phone was already transferring Dad’s photographs, recordings, and financial information to a secure evidence system.
For nine years, I had worked with a unit specializing in financial exploitation involving older and vulnerable adults.
I had dealt with questionable powers of attorney, manipulated wills, unauthorized transfers, and relatives who believed family connections placed them above the law.
Julian and Chloe had no idea they had been explaining their scheme to someone who knew exactly what to look for.
“I’m leaving this afternoon,” I said casually.
Dad looked worried.
Julian smiled.
“Probably best.”
I nodded.
“But before I leave, I’d like to understand Dad’s care arrangements. Just so I know everything is handled.”
Chloe immediately brought me a folder.
Her confidence was astonishing.
Inside was a power of attorney supposedly giving Julian full financial control.
A physician’s letter claimed Dad could no longer manage his own affairs.
A newly prepared will named Julian as the main beneficiary.
Julian leaned back.
“Everything is perfectly legal.”
Then he smiled.
“You’re not getting anything.”
I studied the documents.
Almost immediately, I noticed problems.
The physician’s professional number contained an error.
The notary information was even more suspicious.
The woman whose stamp appeared on the power of attorney had passed away months before the document was supposedly signed.
I kept my expression neutral.
