Page 27 of Owned By Royal

“I don’t think you’d do it knowingly.”

She looks away for a brief moment, wiping at the corner of one eye before composing herself again. “I think you’re hurting. And I think you’re looking for someone to blame.”

“I’m looking for the truth.”

“And if you’re wrong?”

I don’t answer. Because I can’t imagine being wrong anymore. “I’m taking everything I have to the police.”

Her head jerks upward. “What?”

“I’m done waiting. If Marco is innocent, they’ll tell me.”

“And if he isn’t?”

“Then you’re about to marry a murderer.”

The room falls silent. Neither of us notices the front door opening. Neither of us hears footsteps approaching. The first indication that we’re no longer alone is a slow clap echoing through the hallway.

“Well.” A familiar voice sends ice through my veins. “I have to admit, I didn’t think you’d put the pieces together quite this quickly.”

My mother and I turn simultaneously. Marco stands in the doorway. A handgun rests comfortably in his right hand. Every ounce of color drains from my mother’s face.

“Marco...”

He smiles pleasantly. “Hello, Yvonne.”

“What... what is this?”

His eyes settle on me. “Our little detective has become rather inconvenient.”

My heartbeat pounds so violently, I’m surprised I can still hear him speaking. “You’ve been spying on me.”

He walks farther into the room, completely relaxed despite the weapon pointed casually in our direction. “I was actually looking forward to marrying your mother.”

Yvonne stares at him. “I don’t understand.”

“I genuinely enjoyed your company.” He shrugs. “It simply would’ve been... profitable.”

I frown. “What?”

“I assumed marrying you would eventually give me access to Thorne Enterprises.” He laughs softly. “Imagine my disappointment when I discovered everything belongs to your daughter instead.”

Mother slowly turns toward me. “What is he talking about?”

“Dad left me controlling ownership.”

Marco nods approvingly. “Quite the surprise.” His smile disappears. “Unfortunately, by the time I learned that little detail, your daughter had already begun digging through my affairs.”

“You killed him.” The accusation leaves my mouth almost as a whisper.

Marco doesn’t even hesitate. “Yes. He refused to cooperate.”

My knees nearly give out.

My mother’s hand flies to her mouth. “No...”

“He discovered business practices he found morally objectionable.” Marco rolls his eyes. “Then, he threatened to report me. To be honest, he forced my hand.”