“We’re here to determine whether the Red Door Project’s operations should remain suspended pending further review,” she announced.

She looked toward Arthur.

“Mr. Bell, I understand the charity has scheduled Christmas deliveries in three days.”

“Yes, ma’am.”

“How many?”

“Three hundred and twenty-seven children.”

Several board members exchanged uncomfortable looks.

Graham’s attorney stood.

“Madam Chair, the number of recipients does not change the serious safety concerns created by this incident.”

Renee nodded.

“We’ll consider the evidence.”

The attorney continued.

“My client has provided video showing Mr. Bell physically attacking a professional athlete during an event attended by families and children.”

Arthur remained silent.

The attorney pointed toward the screen.

The edited video played.

Eleven seconds.

Santa throwing Derek.

Derek crashing.

Santa sweeping him into Christmas presents.

The familiar clip ended.

The attorney turned toward the board.

“What you have witnessed demonstrates an unacceptable risk.”

Arthur slowly raised his hand.

Renee looked toward him.

“Yes, Mr. Bell?”

“May I ask a question?”

“Of course.”

Arthur looked toward Graham’s attorney.

“Where did the first eleven seconds come from?”

The attorney frowned.

“I’m sorry?”

“That video starts after your client attacked me.”

“Mr. Bell, the footage speaks for itself.”

“No,” Arthur replied. “It speaks for eleven seconds.”

The room became quiet.

He continued.

“I’d like everybody to see the rest.”

Vincent stood.

“Madam Chair, we have obtained original, continuous footage from an eyewitness, along with additional records concerning the organization of this event.”

Graham’s expression changed.

Barely.

But Derek noticed.

Renee leaned forward.

“Is the original recording available for inspection?”

Vincent nodded.

“Yes. The witness has preserved the original files and is available to answer questions.”

“Then let’s see it.”

The lights dimmed.

And the real video began.

Chapter 11: The Truth Nobody Could Edit

The recording opened with Santa sitting peacefully in his red velvet chair.

A little girl approached with her mother.

Arthur leaned forward to speak with her.

The room heard him ask about her Christmas wishes.

Then Derek entered.

Brett’s laughter sounded from behind the camera.

Derek stepped toward Santa.

The first shove sent the old man crashing into the chair.