The humid afternoon air hit me like a physical blow as I stepped outside.

I got into my SUV, locked the doors immediately, and started the engine.

I needed to speak to someone who could protect me, someone outside of Jared’s circle.

I pulled out of the hospital parking lot and dialed Evelyn Vance.

Evelyn had been my family’s estate lawyer for over a decade.

She was a sharp woman with short, grey hair and a reputation for absolute discretion.

Her office was located in a restored brick building three miles from the county courthouse.

I parked in the rear alley and went up the narrow back stairs to avoid the main street.

Evelyn’s receptionist looked surprised to see me without an appointment, but she ushered me through to the private office.

Evelyn was sitting behind a dark mahogany desk, holding a cup of steaming black tea.

She took one look at my pale face and set her cup down.

“Shelby,” she said, rising to close the heavy oak door. “You look completely exhausted.”

“I think Jared is trying to ruin me,” I said, sitting in the green leather chair opposite her. “Or worse.”