The third person who stepped out of the vehicle was Thomas’s old business partner.

Richard Hale.

I hadn’t seen him in eleven years.

For several seconds, I simply stood behind the curtain.

Richard closed the passenger door and looked toward my house.

He wasn’t angry.

He wasn’t confused.

He looked tired.

Almost defeated.

Benjamin said something to him.

Richard shook his head.

Then he pointed toward my front door.

I let the curtain fall.

My tea had gone cold.

I didn’t move.

There are moments in life when your mind