Page 59 of Park Avenue Princess

I look to Guy then face my parents again. “Sounds as if Hollis has the ball rolling with Carmichael. Guy and I had planned to go to the Department of Finance and work with Karen, a woman we trust to help. We need everything you have, Dad, on this operation. All records, transactions, correspondence; everything. It’s definitely going to take time for a thorough investigation, and…” I hesitate, looking at Guy again. “At some point we have to confront your father. And make sure your mother is okay.”

“I’ve let my assistant know I’ll be out of the office most of the day if not the entire day. I’ve also been in contact with other associates in city government that can aid in the investigation. And, it just so happens I know of another Karen at the District Attorney’s office I’ve given a heads up about this case. Mr. DuVall, I’ll update her about your actions toward reparations and hope that’ll constitute leniency.”

Dad’s eyes widen, unable to say a word. Mom looks as if she’s going to cry as a tiny gasp escapes her mouth. She sniffles then clears her throat as she awards Guy an endearing smile.

“You are very gracious.” She looks up at dad and presses a palm to his cheek. “Don’t give up hope, dear.”

Dad also clears his throat and pats mom’s hands before standing. He approaches Guy with his hand outstretched. “I have no words other than thank you.” His voice is thick and a bit unsteady.

Guy stands to take Dad’s hand, shaking it as each place their other hand on one another’s shoulder. “My pleasure, sir.”

With nods, they release hands. Mom and I look at each other, smiling and swiping tears from our cheeks. Mom then bounces out of her seat, announcing she’ll make coffee. I take the opportunity to join everyone on their feet.

“Mom, Dad, as much as I’d love for us to stay, talk more, Guy and I need to see Karen at Finance. Dad, do you have all the information needed here?”

“Yes, I have all the records here. When able, I began transferring every transcript and transaction onto flash drives. Any and all information has been wiped from the firm’s computers. I have a meeting with my lawyer this afternoon to start the process of turning over control of the firm to Dennis.”

“Really?” I say, completely shocked.

“Yes, really. As I said, I knew the day would come when I’d have to prepare for this. And even if I could hope beyond hope for any shred of grace at not being sent to prison for the rest of my life, my heart, my drive is no longer at the firm. For however many days I have remaining, I intend to devote them to my wife, and my daughter. If you’ll allow that.”

I fling myself at my father, wrapping my arms around his neck and hugging him. He startles, laughs, then embraces me fiercely.

“I absolutely will allow that,” I whisper.

“Good, good,” he whispers back.

I stifle a sob as we continue to cling to one another.

“I feel very left out.” Mom chuckles.

Dad and I separate enough to pull her into the hug. As I look over my shoulder, I see Guy’s brilliant smile as he winks at me and I can’t help but smile wider.

Once we finally separate and begin our good-byes, Guy promises to inform Dad of the discussion with Karen at the District Attorney’s office.

“I’m sure I’ll be hearing from many individuals,” Dad states. “Lynne, let me give you the flash drives with the information. I have copies.”

As he disappears to his office, Guy pulls out his phone. “I had it silenced for our visit. Excuse me while I check it real quick.”

Mom and I barely exchange a few words when Guy mumbleswhat thebefore he trails off, swiping repeatedly across his phone. Suddenly he muttersson of a…

“What is it?” I ask.

His head pops up, his face a mix of anger and astonishment. “Several messages, from mom, Hollis, Tristen, who’s my assistant. My father is basically MIA. Hollis had some people try to reach out to him under the pretense of business matters, but he’s not able to be reached at work, he’s not answering his phone or responding to texts. Hollis said he’s had someone watching his accounts and several have been liquidated; completely dissolved.”

“He’s running, isn’t he?”

“It appears that way. Fucking unbelievable,” he curses while continuing to swipe. His head pops up again and he’s cringing. “My apologies. I—”

“No need to apologize,” Mom cuts him off. “It is effing unbelievable. To run out on your family. That’s cowardly.”

“I, I don’t even know what to say.”

I walk to Guy and place my hand on his arm. It’s now my turn to be the calming force; to show I’m here for him as he was for me. “What about your mom? Has anyone tried to contact her about your father?”

He looks at me with a dazed expression. “She, uh, I’m not sure.”

“I’m assuming she’s at work?”

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