HAROLD'S POV - Five Days Before Richard's Arrival
Harold Ashford sat in his private study, surrounded by manila folders that represented weeks of careful investigation. Luke had been thorough. Very thorough.
The private investigator sat across from him now, nursing a whiskey while Harold reviewed the final report.
"This is impressive work," Harold said, flipping through photographs, financial records, and detailed timelines. "Very impressive."
"Thank you, sir. Though I have to say, the girl is cleaner than I expected. No criminal record beyond the identity fraud she committed to infiltrate the Blackwood estate. No questionable associations. She's almost boringly legitimate."
"Almost," Harold repeated, his eyes catching on a particular section. "But not entirely. Tell me about this."
He tapped a page labeled "A. Ren - Digital Art Sales."
