Ethan had created the company, managed the transfers, and controlled the passwords. But Lauren’s signature was on every page. Mine appeared twice. Ethan’s name appeared nowhere.

He wasn’t planning a future with my wife. He was building an escape route through her.

Back at the house, Lauren still didn’t understand that. She believed they were partners. Ethan needed her to keep believing it a little longer. He lowered his voice and put both hands on her shoulders.

“Lauren, look at me.”

She pulled away. “No.”

“Daniel wants us to turn against each other.”