I checked the kitchen one last time, not for something I had forgotten, but to make sure I had not taken anything that would give Michael a reason to accuse me of stealing from him.

Outside she locked the door and handed the key back to me.

I put it in my coat pocket.

For once I had a reason to keep it that had nothing to do with Michael.

At the attorney’s office the temporary housing and expense agreement was clear.

Robert would cover the agreed expenses through his account.

I would keep my own account separate.

This did not give him authority over my personal or legal decisions.