Chapter 16 - The Maid's Testimony
While the forensic accountants dismantled the financial empire, Detective Miller was focused on securing the airtight conviction for attempted murder.
He needed witness statements to corroborate the video evidence. Most of the wealthy guests at the party were entirely uncooperative. They didn't want their names associated with a massive, highly publicized scandal, and they still feared the lingering ghost of the Harrington influence.
But one person willingly walked into the police station.
Maria, the young maid who had bravely grabbed Vanessa’s arm on the landing, sat nervously in Detective Miller’s office. She twisted a paper napkin in her hands, looking terrified.
"I need my job, Detective," Maria whispered, tears welling in her eyes. "If the other rich families find out I testified against Mrs. Harrington, I will be blacklisted. I won't be able to pay my rent."
Miller leaned forward, his voice gentle but firm. "Maria, you saved Olivia's life. If you hadn't held Vanessa back, she might have gone down those stairs and finished the job. You are a hero."
He handed her a formal witness statement document.
"I have already spoken to the District Attorney," Miller promised. "We have a victim relocation and employment assistance program. You will not lose your livelihood for telling the truth. I will personally guarantee it."
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Maria looked at the paper. She thought about the pregnant woman lying broken on the marble floor. She took a deep breath, picked up the pen, and signed her name at the bottom of the statement.
"She said the girl deserved it," Maria stated firmly, looking up at Miller. "She wanted her to die. I will swear to it in front of a judge."
