“Russell is taking Vaughn Enterprises public in three weeks,” Grant said. “He’s carrying massive high-interest loans, pledged his primary assets, and buried millions in toxic debt.”

“If we trigger a formal audit now, his public offering collapses,” I said.

Grant smiled without warmth. “I already spoke with his primary lenders tonight.”

Ronald pushed his folder toward me. “I also found something on the Aspen fire. Gwendolyn tampered with the gas line to stage a small, fake rescue. The leak got out of control and nearly killed everyone.”

The room felt heavy.

Arthur turned his laptop toward me and pressed play. The screen showed Gwendolyn walking into the event dressing room three days earlier, pulling out heavy scissors, and calmly cutting her own designer dress.