The refusal to be dragged was itself the victory.

I kept my hands clean, and it was not weakness, and it was not mercy toward him.

It was the single most complete way to win, and I took it deliberately, and I have never for one moment wished I had chosen the other door.

Chapter 14 — The Police

The police arrived a few minutes later, summoned by a member of the household staff whom Rafael had quietly encouraged to report the assault she had witnessed.

Two officers came into the ballroom.