I bent over her shoulder and read the fine print twice.

The clause said that by accepting the cash bonus, the former employee agreed never to discuss shop safety standards, payroll records, or denials of employee health benefits with any person or agency.

“He stuck a gag clause in a severance agreement,” I said.

“He wants to buy your silence about why you quit two days after you asked for pediatric coverage,” Irene said, setting the glass down on the wooden table.

Noah put down his socks and looked up at the table.