“It was a bulk administrative package,” Ethan said, his pitch-deck rhythm showing its first sharp crack.

“I had seventy personnel files crossing my desk every week.”

“A certified return receipt requires an individual signature against a federal registry log,” Richard said, setting the card down next to the birth certificates.

“You received notice.

You signed for notice.

And then you told your mother that Grace miscarried.”

“I was twenty-nine and overwhelmed,” Ethan said, his voice dropping to a harsh whisper.

“You were a captain in the army,” Richard said.