“No,” Victoria said. “I explained reality. And you should understand reality, Robert. Men like you build towers and think they’re untouchable. But every tower has permits, every permit has signatures, and every signature has a price.”

Robert’s face changed. For the first time all day, I saw surprise.

Victoria heard it. “Oh, you didn’t think I knew? Your old partners talk. Your ex-wife may be impressed by your grand return, but I know exactly what kind of man you are.

Don’t start a war with me. You’ll lose more than your daughter’s wedding gifts.”

She hung up, and the room went silent.

Evelyn looked at Robert. “What was she talking about?”