Whatever Derek had done, I didn’t want the office receptionist or a warehouse worker paying for it.

Thomas asked if he could speak with me directly.

We met in the public lobby of a hotel, with Rachel joining us as a friend rather than an accountant.

“I’ve known Derek for fifteen years,” Thomas said.

“He wasn’t always this way.”

“I know.”

“He says the transfers were legitimate consulting expenses.”

“Then a fair review should establish that.”