Victor’s mouth opened, but nothing came out. He looked like a fish pulled onto dry land.

Then another file clicked into place. This time it was Daniel’s voice.

“I don’t know, Dad. Mara’s been quiet lately. I think she suspects something about the Cayman transfers.”

Victor’s recorded laughter was cruel and dismissive. “Mara suspects recipes and nursery paint colors, Daniel. The girl is harmless. Keep her pregnant, keep her distracted.

She’s a useful idiot.”

I watched Daniel’s arrogance collapse in real time.