Forty-Seven Guests Watched Maya Leave With Two Suitcases—Then Her Mother’s Orchid Ring Led to the Money Her Husband Said She Didn’t Have

After Thomas left, Maya and Claire took Lily onto the balcony.

Cars moved along the street below.

Lily held her picture with both hands so the breeze would not fold it.

A message from Ellen asked how Maya wanted the birthday file retained.

Claire watched her read it.

“You could release the full recording.”

“I could.”

“It would contradict the caption.”