defend him.
After twelve years in forensic accounting, I knew insecure people became reckless whenever they believed they were the smartest person in the room.
Vanessa had always confused cruelty with intelligence.
The morning Daniel handed me the debit card, he said, “Whatever you need for the house, use this.”
“I have my own money.”
“I know.” He smiled. “That’s why I trust you with mine.”
At the bank, the teller glanced toward the glass offices behind her.
“Mrs. Mercer,” she said softly, “this card is linked to Mercer Family
