Meanwhile my employment matter moved forward slowly.

Two restaurants confirmed in writing that Dennis had warned them about me.

One owner forwarded a message calling me a liability and advising others to avoid hiring me.

Another owner admitted he’d never checked whether the accusation was true.

Leila read those replies aloud.

I felt equal parts vindicated and humiliated.

My life had been reduced to a rumor that travelled farther than my résumé.

“Evidence doesn’t automatically produce justice,” Leila cautioned.