“Is that what we’re calling it?”
“What?”
“Helping someone?”
His jaw tightened.
“You’ve changed.”
“No, Richard. I think I’m finally paying attention.”
For a second, I thought he might shout.
Instead, he smiled again.
It was the smile he used when he wanted people to underestimate how angry he was.
“Saturday is still happening,” he said. “The movers will arrive at ten. I expect you to be ready.”
“Of course.”
“And Claire?”
“Yes?”
“Don’t make me regret trusting you.”
He walked upstairs.
I waited until his footsteps disappeared before calling Margaret.
I told her about the threatening message, the request for the property deed, and Richard’s sudden interest in my conversations with Vesna.
She listened without interrupting.
When I finished, she said, “Do not confront him again. Save every message. Don’t touch the business records without guidance. And if you feel physically unsafe, leave the house and contact the authorities.”
