“What bridge loans?”

“Bennett Marine had a cash-flow problem last year. A major client delayed payment. We borrowed through a fund connected to Hart Strategic. The terms gave Daniel leverage.”

“You told me the company was stable.”

“It is — operationally. But the loans gave him leverage.” He looked toward the window. “I did not know who he was when you first began seeing him.”

A terrible suspicion took shape. “When did you realize?” His silence answered first. “Before the engagement,” he said.

Every memory rearranged itself — my father praising Daniel, encouraging me not to worry when the engagement moved quickly, telling me marriage required faith.