Chapter 6 - THE WINE WASN’T SUPPOSED TO KILL HER
Toxicology did not support a clean attempted-murder theory.
That surprised everyone.
Elena had ingested a sedating prescription compound mixed into her wine.
Dangerous in the amount she received.
Especially combined with medication she had been taking for a recent ulcer.
But investigators found no clear evidence Vivienne intended a lethal dose.
The prosecution’s more supportable theory was coercion.
Make Elena weak.
Confused.
Compliant.
Then put documents in front of her.
Then obtain a signature.
The blood came from a complication they apparently had not planned.
That did not make the act harmless.
It made it more believable.
Criminal plans are often stupid before they become deadly.
Who put it in the wine?
The household sommelier denied it.
Kitchen staff denied it.
Security footage showed Dominic alone with the decanter for seventeen seconds before dinner.
His attorney argued that proved nothing.
Then investigators found a message.
Vivienne to Dominic:
Just enough that she stops arguing. Do NOT get creative.
Dominic:
I know.
No substance named.
No explicit poisoning language.
Still powerful.
Then another message from Dominic to a private concierge physician:
Need something mild for an anxious guest. Fast onset. Short duration.
The physician had provided legitimate medication for Dominic weeks earlier.
Not for Elena.
May you like
Dominic’s access connected.
The chain tightened.
