Behind him, through the kitchen windows, I could see quartz countertops I had never approved, new cabinets, and expensive pendant lights.

Parked beside the house was a black luxury pickup truck.

I knew from photographs Godfrey had opened an auto repair shop the previous year.

He had told me business was:

“finally taking off.”

I had congratulated him.

I had even sent him five thousand dollars as a grand-opening gift.

Now I wondered how much more I had contributed without knowing it.

Phoebe reached for another piece of bread.

Her hand shook so badly she dropped it.

“I feel dizzy.”

Her voice was almost a whisper.

“I haven’t eaten since yesterday.”

Godfrey laughed.