Stephan fixed his gaze on Johanna. She shrank back, looking absolutely terrified. Her innocent expression conveyed just the right amount of panic; it was as if she truly had no idea what he was talking about.
Stephan’s expression darkened. “Are you sure you don’t know anything?”
Johanna was on the verge of tears. She hesitated, then bit her lip and admitted, “I… I was involved. The rumors about the Fullers are my doing. I hired people online and paid reporters to create unfavorable publicity, but it wasn’t my plan to bankrupt them. I just wanted them punished! I only stirred up rumors. I really had nothing to do with the murder!”
She wiped her tears. “Stephan, even if you blame me, I’ll still avenge my brother!”
Her confession moved some of the men. After all, she was seeking justice for her brother. As for the murder, perhaps the Fullers were responsible, or perhaps someone else. Either way, Johanna didn't seem implicated.
Johanna’s beauty lent her an air of vulnerability, especially when she cried. The mix of stubbornness and vulnerability easily evoked pity. It was hard to believe she was the mastermind.
But Stanley, Stephan’s longest-serving subordinate, remained unconvinced. He asked, “Mr. Russell, should we investigate further?”
“There’s no need,” Stephan replied. Investigating every minor detail would overburden his men. Besides, his inaction stemmed not from trust in Johanna, but from simple indifference.
He shrugged. “I’ll have someone escort you back to Seldvale tomorrow. Stay with Imogen and care for her. I’ll handle your brother’s matter.”
Johanna’s eyes widened in shock. This was perhaps the longest sentence Stephan had ever spoken to her, yet it was to dismiss her! “I don’t want to go! I’ll stay here! Stephan, please don’t send me away!” she cried.
But her pleas were unheeded as he left.
Moments later, a new report arrived concerning the auction this Saturday. A new donation from the Fullers—a map—was among the items.
“What?” Stephan stared at the messenger. “Are you sure?”
“Yes, Mr. Russell. I inquired at the auction house. The map is sealed in a metal box, awaiting Saturday’s auction!” The man added angrily, “This means its existence is no longer secret. More people will target it and the island it marks!”
How bold of the Fullers. Did they think they could wash their hands of everything by donating the map? Did they believe this proved its legitimate acquisition?
Stephan understood their actions. Overwhelmed by the negative publicity, they likely saw the map as the source of their troubles and were attempting to distance themselves from it.
He couldn't comprehend their logic. Returning the map to its rightful owner would have been the path to clearing their name; perhaps then he would have let them off the hook. Instead, they had only caused him further trouble.