His vice president. His trusted partner. The man who had encouraged him to take the day off.
The betrayal hit harder than the bomb itself.
Sirens echoed in the distance.
Soon, the marina filled with police and specialists. The area was sealed off. Divers entered the water.
Richard stood nearby, Sophie beside him. Only then did he notice how thin she was.
Without thinking, he signaled a restaurant manager.
“Bring food. The best you have.”
When the plate arrived, Sophie stared at it, unsure.
“Go ahead,” Richard said gently.
She ate quickly, like someone who wasn’t sure when the next meal would come.
An officer approached, holding a sealed bag.
“C4,” he said. “Triggered by ignition. You wouldn’t have survived.”
Richard nodded grimly.
“I know who did it.”
At that moment, his phone rang.
Ethan.
“Richard,” came the voice, calm. “Out on the water already?”
Richard’s jaw tightened.
“Not yet,” he said evenly. “Small issue. But I’m about to start the engine. Thought you’d like to hear it.”
There was a pause.
“Maybe you should wait,” Ethan said carefully. “It could be dangerous.”
Richard smiled coldly.
“I already have the police here. And a witness.”
Silence.
“What are you talking about?” Ethan asked.