Chapter 11
“Right, I think we have a good start here, and the DA should be able to dig up a lot more once they get a warrant.” Blake’s attorney was an older man, dressed in a western suit and bolo tie. “Blake, Matt, thank you. Donna, I appreciate the thumb drive and the information. It has been a pleasure working with you. I’ll keep you informed.”
Once he left the room, Matt turned to Blake. “I don’t know what to say. I’m so sorry. I don’t know how this all slipped by me.”
“As far as I can tell, it has only been going on for a few months,” Donna told them. “If Heather hadn’t been so greedy she caused the account to run low, she might not have been detected for years. I think she started skimming a few dollars out of cash deposits. After getting away with that for a couple of years, she realized this was a way to siphon off some serious money. This happens all the time, Matt, and to business owners much more experienced than you.”
“She’s right. Don’t beat yourself up, Matt. I should have been more involved in setting up the systems and safeguards too. It’s not only your responsibility.”
Matt grinned sheepishly. “So I still have a job?”
“You bet you do.” Blake thumped Matt on the back. “Once you get back from your honeymoon, you will have your hands full getting everything straightened out.”
“In that case, I’d better get back to work. Thanks, Blake.” Matt turned. “Donna, I admit I wasn’t thrilled with the idea of you digging into my business at first, but obviously you’ve saved my bacon. Thank you for all you’ve done.”
“You are more than welcome, Matt. I’ll see you soon.”
Blake and Donna were left alone. For a moment, they just looked at each other.
“So you’ve accomplished what you came for. Does this mean you’re leaving now?” Blake’s voice was carefully neutral.
“Not immediately. As far as I know, I’m still invited to the wedding. I’ve grown quite fond of Kristen and Matt, and I’m looking forward to seeing them married. Speaking of Kristen, I should find her and give her the news.”
“I imagine that Matt has already called. Donna, do you have plans for tonight?” Blake’s phone began ringing. He glanced at the caller ID, and then held up a finger, “Just a second, this is the vet.”
Donna watched Blake as he talked to the veterinarian. The relief on his face made it clear that the dog was improving. “Thank you, Doctor. Goodbye.”
“So Sally’s okay?” Donna asked.
“The vet says she’s doing fine. Donna, I would love to spend some time with you. I wanted to ask you out for the evening, but the vet says Sally is ready to go home, so I need to stay with her. Will you have dinner with me at my house tonight?”
Donna was touched. “I would love that, but you have your hands full with Sally. How about if I bring the food and cook you dinner instead?”
“That sounds great, but are you sure you want to go to all that trouble? I could order in.”
Donna shook her head. “No trouble, I like to cook. Now that my daughter is away at college, I don’t have anyone at home to cook for.”
“You have a daughter. Any other kids?”
“No just the one. Rachel is twenty-one. How about you? Any kids?”
“No, never married.” Blake looked out the window for just a moment, before scribbling something on a notepad and tearing off the top sheet to hand to Donna. “Here is the address. I’m looking forward to tonight.”
“Me too.” Donna smiled. “About six?”
“Perfect.”
“Goodbye Ms. Zimmer,” Rainbow sang out as Donna passed her desk.
Donna turned and beamed back at her. “Goodbye, Rainbow. Have a wonderful day!”