“Standard language.”
“So I’m cleared?”
“Yes.”
I sat back.
I had not realized how much tension I was holding until it vanished.
Laura continued.
“The investigation into Darren and Brenda is ongoing.”
I closed my eyes.
For maybe ten seconds.
Then opened them.
“Okay.”
That afternoon police arrested Brenda Sterling.
Mrs. Bell called me before anybody official did.
“Arthur.”
“Yes?”
“They put Brenda in handcuffs.”
“How do you know?”
“I have windows.”
Of course she did.
Brenda was charged initially with multiple offenses related to conspiracy, coercion, falsified records, and the armed enforcement scheme.
The exact list changed as prosecutors developed the case.
Darren was charged from the hospital.
Impersonation related offenses.
Armed intimidation.
Attempted unlawful entry.
Weapons offenses.
Conspiracy.
The HOA itself hired emergency outside counsel.
Then three board members resigned.
Then two more.
Charles Wynn called me.
I almost ignored it.
I answered.
“Arthur.”
“Charles.”
“I owe you an apology.”
