It happened in the lobby.
A woman I trusted. One who had known me before any of this.
She took my hand. Held it too tight.
“You don’t have to tell me anything,” she said softly. “But just know… money always tells a story.”
My heart slammed against my ribs.
She squeezed once more, then let go.
Across the room, Caleb watched.
Not alarmed.
Assessing.
That’s when I knew.
This wasn’t just about secrecy anymore.
It was about who would speak first.
And who would be believed when they did.