I BOUGHT A TICKET TO EVERMERE

Not their flight.

The one ninety minutes later.

I called my mother and asked her to keep Lily overnight.

Then I called the school.

Family situation.

Please release Lily to Grandma.

I told no one else.

From an airport restroom stall, I called Monica.

“I heard Vanessa say they’re signing something Friday and that funds are available.”

“What time do they land?”

“About one.”

“Send me everything.”

“I’m following them.”

“I assumed.”

“You sound disappointed.”

“I’m a lawyer, Claire. I’m professionally disappointed by clients.”

Despite everything, I laughed.

Then Monica became serious.

“I’m going to have a forensic accountant look at the transfers.”

“Today?”

“Yes.”

“Do not sign anything.”

“I’m not the one signing.”

“Claire.”

“What?”

“If Adrian has been accessing accounts using your credentials, you may discover documents containing your name.”

That thought stayed with me through the entire flight.