Page 31 of Hitched to My Enemy
"The evidence supports that conclusion," I confirmed. "The programming alterations were sophisticated, designed to create the appearance of systematic cheating while avoiding immediate detection."
"Convenient," Watts muttered. "Alleged sabotage that requires you to work closely with Hardwick, just as his licensing deadline looms."
"With respect, Commissioner," I said carefully, "the evidence is documented and verifiable. The machines havebeen secured for independent examination, and the access logs clearly show unauthorized programming changes."
Commissioner Diaz, who had been silently observing, finally spoke. "The governor's office has expressed interest in your collaborative oversight model. They believe it could represent a more efficient regulatory approach."
"It's showing promising results," I agreed. "By working directly with the Jade Petal's security team, we've identified patterns that might have been missed in a traditional adversarial investigation."
"Or you've been manipulated into seeing what Hardwick wants you to see," Watts countered. "Your history with him creates an additional complication. You shut down his previous establishment, correct? How do we know this isn't some elaborate revenge scheme—or worse, a capitulation due to personal feelings?"
The question sliced uncomfortably close to my own doubts, but I maintained a neutral expression. "My professional record speaks for itself, Commissioner. I've never allowed personal considerations to influence my findings."
"Until now," he said pointedly.
Before I could respond, the conference room door opened, and Enzo Ricci entered with the smooth confidence of someone who knew exactly how much power he wielded.
"Commissioners." He nodded respectfully. "I apologize for the intrusion, but I was informed you were discussing the Jade Petal investigation. As a concerned industry member with relevant information, I requested permission to join."
I kept my expression neutral despite the fury building inside me. This was a calculated ambush, and someone on the commission had facilitated it.
"Mr. Ricci," Commissioner Diaz greeted him. "What information do you believe is relevant to our discussion?"
Enzo took a seat, his expensive suit and manicured appearance projecting the polished image of Vegas old guard. "I have concerns about the objectivity of the current investigation." He withdrew a manila folder from his briefcase. "These photographs were taken the night of the Jade Petal's gala opening."
He slid several glossy prints across the table—professional-quality surveillance shots showing Easton and me dancing, his hand at the small of my back, our faces close together. Another showed us leaving the casino, his fingers intertwined with mine.
"Can we truly trust the judgment of an investigator who spends her evenings with the subject of her investigation?" Enzo asked, echoing Watts's earlier question. "Particularly given the Jade Petal's numerous regulatory concerns?"
"What regulatory concerns would those be?" I asked evenly. "Our investigation has found no violations in the property's current operations."
"How convenient," Enzo said smoothly. "Perhaps because you've been distracted by more... personal interests."
The insinuation hung in the air. I breathed steadily, focusing on facts rather than the anger simmering beneath my professional veneer.
"The collaborative oversight model has proven remarkably effective," I stated, directing my comments to Commissioner Bryant, who seemed most receptive. "This approach uncovered sabotage attempts that traditional methods would have missed—specifically, the internal tampering that could have compromised customer protections."
"Alleged sabotage," Enzo corrected. "Conveniently discovered just as questions about Ms. Clarke's objectivity began circulating."
"The physical evidence has been secured," I countered. "Independent technical analysis will confirm our findings."
"Assuming the evidence hasn't been tampered with," he suggested with practiced concern.
I felt a flash of genuine anger. "Are you accusing me of evidence manipulation, Mr. Ricci?"
"I'm merely raising questions that the commission should consider," he replied smoothly. "The timing is remarkable, wouldn't you agree?"
Before the conversation could deteriorate further, Commissioner Bryant intervened. "I believe we've heard enough for this preliminary session. The full hearing will provide opportunity for complete presentation of evidence from all parties."
As the meeting adjourned, Enzo caught me in the hallway, his voice low enough that only I could hear.
"You're playing a dangerous game, Investigator Clarke."
"I'm doing my job," I replied evenly. "Something you seem intent on preventing."
His smile never reached his eyes. "Easton Hardwick took something from me years ago. I'm simply returning the favor."
The personal nature of the vendetta surprised me. "This isn't about regulatory concerns at all, is it?"
