Patricia was a retired real-estate attorney who had known our family for decades.

I hadn’t seen her in three years.

I suddenly understood why she was on the guest list.

Evelyn wanted witnesses, but only witnesses who would hear her version first.

Rosa had arranged for me to enter through the side utility hall again.

Before I did, she handed me a note in Mariana’s handwriting.

Please let me speak.

Even if you’re angry.