The salary from the Bradleys was generous, but no amount justified giving up my peace indefinitely.

When I told Kenneth I might need to reconsider, he surprised me.

“Then reconsider,” he said.

“I won’t ask you to become a shield for my household’s mistakes.”

He offered to put my contract in the hands of an independent employment lawyer, make my duties specific, and ensure I had time off and confidential support if I needed it.

The offer did not erase the danger.

It did show he was listening.