“You have no independent income, Mrs.

Mendoza.

Ten thousand dollars will pay for a small apartment for a few months while you look for work.”

“I’m dropping the name Mendoza,” I said quietly.

“And I don’t need ten thousand dollars from your client.”

Oscar paused, his brass pen stopping mid-tap.

“You’re turning down the cash?” Oscar asked.

“I’m waiving all claims to Alejandro’s personal accounts, his vehicles, and his residential properties,” I said, taking a pen from Samuel.