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Stories
167
Chapters
9,217
Words
23.6 M
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Reading
81 d, 23 h
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The chapter opens with Sir Winston questioning Captain Beane about his investigation into the death of Paul Manning aboard the yacht *Expansive*. The captain recounts finding Allison Manning alone on the yacht, where she claimed her husband died of natural causes, likely a heart attack. However, a search of the yacht revealed no evidence supporting her claim but uncovered a diary written by Paul Manning. The diary contained disturbing entries suggesting marital strife and fear of his wife, including a…-
140.1 K • Ongoing
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Stone and Leslie Hewitt leave the courthouse after Allison’s bail is revoked, heading to a nearby restaurant frequented by government officials. Stone, still wearing his barrister’s robe and wig, is reminded by Hewitt to keep the wig on as a matter of protocol. They discuss whether to call Allison as a witness, with Stone arguing against it due to the prosecution’s weak case. Hewitt insists she must testify, explaining that in St. Marks, refusing to take the stand could imply guilt to the jury, and…
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140.1 K • Ongoing
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The chapter opens with Sir Winston Sutherland delivering a dramatic opening statement for the prosecution, accusing Allison Manning of murdering her wealthy husband, Paul Manning, for his $12 million life insurance policy. He portrays Allison as a calculated killer who callously watched her husband drown after pushing him off their yacht. Sir Winston emphasizes Paul’s robust health and successful career, suggesting his death was no accident. He promises the jury will hear Paul’s own words from a diary…
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140.1 K • Ongoing
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In Chapter 51, attorney Stone questions Mr. Stendahl, an insurance investigator, about Paul Manning's medical history and insurance policy. Stone establishes that Manning had no prior medical records or insurance policies before his examination two years earlier. He then introduces a later medical report showing Manning’s poor health, suggesting Manning may have temporarily improved his health to secure insurance before reverting to unhealthy habits. Stone implies Manning’s wife, the beneficiary, had…
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140.1 K • Ongoing
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On the eve of a trial, Stone and Allison choose to spend their last night together aboard a yacht rather than dining out. Allison prefers the normalcy of cooking, thawing a chateaubriand and preparing béarnaise sauce, while Stone contributes by making a Caesar salad. Their playful banter and shared tasks create a sense of intimacy, with Allison insisting on maintaining routine despite the looming trial. The meal, accompanied by a fine bottle of Opus One wine, becomes a celebration of their connection,…
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140.1 K • Ongoing
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The chapter opens with Stone, Allison, and their lawyer, Sir Leslie Hewitt, arriving at Government House for Allison’s murder trial. The atmosphere is tense as Stone reviews his opening statement, though he doubts Hewitt will use it. Allison appears composed, her youthful appearance accentuated by her attire. Upon entering the courtroom, Stone feels out of place, unaccustomed to the formalities of St. Marks’ legal system. The setting is described as modest, with peeling paint and a raised gallery,…
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140.1 K • Ongoing
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Stone Barrington, preoccupied with thoughts of contacting Arrington, realizes he cannot reach her as she is staying at Vance Calder’s Palm Springs house. As he approaches the Shipwright’s Arms, he notices a large man in a seersucker suit at the bar, who bears a striking resemblance to Paul Manning, a key figure in Allison’s case. Stone initially wonders if Manning’s presumed death was a mistake, but the man introduces himself as Frank Stendahl, a New Englander on vacation. Stendahl’s curiosity…
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140.1 K • Ongoing
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Stone returns downstairs to find Stendahl at the bar and joins journalists Hilary Kramer and Jim Forrester at their table. Curious about Stendahl’s identity, Stone asks Forrester to engage him in conversation, suspecting he might be connected to the trial. Forrester obliges and later reveals Stendahl is a life insurance salesman from Boston, dispelling Stone’s initial suspicions. Meanwhile, Stone and Kramer discuss Forrester’s reporting style, with Kramer noting his exceptional memory and curiosity,…
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140.1 K • Ongoing
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In Chapter 45, Stone prepares Allison Manning for her upcoming trial by conducting a rigorous mock interrogation. He emphasizes the importance of body language, advising her to remain composed, avoid defensive gestures, and maintain honesty. Stone switches roles between her attorney and the prosecutor, Sir Winston, to simulate courtroom dynamics. Allison struggles initially but begins to adapt, learning to answer truthfully and control her emotions. Stone warns her that the jury will detect dishonesty,…
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140.1 K • Ongoing
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Stone receives a fax from Arrington, revealing she has married Vance Calder in a spontaneous ceremony in Arizona. The letter explains that her feelings for Vance developed during their time working together, and she realized she wanted permanence—something she doubted Stone could offer. Arrington expresses regret for not resolving their relationship beforehand but emphasizes her happiness with Vance. She hopes they can remain friends and reassures Stone that her decision was not meant to cause him pain,…
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140.1 K • Ongoing
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