The man stumbled backward, papers scattering. One landed faceup near Elena’s feet—a forged signature, the ink smudged from fresh rain. The detective caught it instantly. “Where did you get these?” he asked sharply. The man froze, then bolted for the exit. Valorian’s growl became a bark that chased him down the hall.
Two officers intercepted him near the elevators. The scene unfolded in seconds: cuffs snapping, voices raised, the man cursing the “crazy dog.” Elena pressed a trembling hand to Valorian’s shoulder. “You knew,” she whispered. “You knew before anyone.” The detective glanced at her, grim. He said, “We’re taking him in.”