“Maybe,” Robert said.

“No,” Evelyn countered. “Not maybe. She knew exactly where to press.”

The ground shifted under us. Victoria wasn’t just a greedy mother-in-law with a cruel hand. She had information, and she had planned for Robert too.

That evening, Evelyn urged caution. “We proceed legally. Protective order, criminal complaint, civil action, fraud investigation. But don’t let this become Robert versus Victoria.

That’s what she wants.”

Robert gave a cold laugh. “She beat my child. It already is.”