“Vanessa,” Daniel warned.
She turned on him.
“No. I gave a speech for you. I stood on that stage and told everyone you were the most honorable man I knew.”
The diamond ring still lay on the table between them like a small, glittering accusation.
“And you let me.”
Daniel’s face had gone dangerously still.
“You’re emotional. Anything you say right now could be misunderstood.”
Marlowe reached into her coat. “Ms. Caldwell, we can take your statement privately.”
Vanessa nodded.
Daniel laughed once. “Of course. Wonderful. My ex-wife produces surprise children, my fiancée becomes a witness, and my family applauds. Merry Christmas.”
He reached for his coat.
Haines stepped in his path.
“Remember the order, Colonel. Do not leave the state.”
Daniel stared at him with open contempt.
“I’m going home.”
“That is allowed.”
The insult of permission nearly choked him.
He turned toward the doors, then paused beside me.
