I reached into my uniform pocket and took out the blackmail letter he’d drafted.

I unfolded the phony collection agency letter and pressed the center crease flat against the wooden cabinet.

I lined its corners up with the edge of the pile.

I slipped the draft letter back into the leather briefcase exactly where I’d found it.

I left the dining room and went down the short hall to the kitchen.

Chloe was leaning against the refrigerator by the island, staring down at her phone.

She had on a brand-new green silk blouse, its store tags neatly snipped off.