Page 13 (1/2)

Hirschbeck glowered atan independent auditor When the audit is complete, ill be happy to share the results, to the extent they are not otherwise privileged”

I felt sure that Hirschbeck would be very busy co that you’ll also have a computer forensics expert make sure no one hacked into the accounts payable system”

Hirschbeck looked at ”

“Not at all,” I said “It’s possible someone did just that”

“And we have to cough up the money for an expert, based on a mere possibility? I think not It’s not up to us to prove our system hasn’t been tampered with”

“Cooper worked in accounting Perhaps he found a way to do it”

“I told you, I have nothing further to say about him”

“Is there some reason why you’re so reluctant to discuss Cooper—and why he left? Or the reasons you decided to search Brad’s workspace?” I leaned in for emphasis “Is it because you have so very little?”

His face reddened “We have more than you know,” he blustered “A certain individual has shared information—on a confidential basis The person prefers to remain anonymous, due to fear of retaliation by your client”

So soainst Brad I had to wonder if it was Attitudinal Ana “Brad Higgins wouldn’t hurt a fly And he has the right to confront his accusers I’d like to talk to this person You can be there, if you wish Just an informal discussion Off the record” Not that there was any record to be on, at this point

“I’m afraid that won’t be possible” Hirschbeck bared his teeth in a fake smile “Suffice it to say, we are confident that our actions, so far, are legally justifiable”

“It won’t suffice at all For all I know, you have nothing Your sourceto hide My client says he’s innocent You’ve placed him under a microscope and put his livelihood and career at risk It had better be based on more than accusations by an anonymous witness and evidence planted in his office”

“Planted?” Hirschbeck turned beet red “I’ll sue you for slander”

“I didn’t say you did it Is there a reason for you to take that remark so personally?”

We faced each other down, like gunfighters I avertedout loud at Hirschbeck’s , her gaze flitting back and forth between us