Richard Mercer had served as my company’s attorney for twenty-seven years.

My gaze returned to Eleanor’s stone.

“I need you to arrange a ride. Then prepare every document we discussed.”

He paused before replying.

“Are you certain?”

“Completely.”

Three hours and twenty minutes later, a chauffeured car carried me cityward.

Vanessa had no idea what her cruelty had triggered.

By twelve that night, Vanessa had tried calling eleven times. I let every attempt go unanswered.

A text arrived from Derek.

“Hope you’ve learned your lesson. Call when you’re ready to apologize.”