“Not if I make it look like I am breaking under the pressure,” I said. “I will make the payment contingent on him signing a full disclosure of his personal liabilities.”

“Let me draft the agreement,” David said. “But do not contact him until I send it to you.”

“I understand,” I said.

We hung up the phone.

I stood up and walked to the front window, parting the sheer curtains.

Outside, the streetlights were turning on as the evening sky darkened.

I saw Ethan’s car parked across the street under a maple tree.

The brake lights were red, meaning he and Linda were still sitting inside, likely arguing about their next move.

I took a deep breath, smoothing down my sweater.

It was time to play my part.

I unlocked the front door and stepped out onto the porch, leaving the door slightly ajar.

The cold wind hit my face, making my eyes water.

I walked down the steps and stood at the edge of the driveway, looking small and exhausted.

Across the street, the driver’s side door of the car opened.