The public auditor called me three days later.
Her name was Celia Ward. She spoke plainly and asked whether I could testify in person. I said yes. She warned me that the inquiry would be public, that the palace would have counsel, and that my personal relationship with Adrian would become part of the questioning.
"I understand," I said.
"Do you have a lawyer?"
"I'm arranging one."
"You'll need one."
After the call, I stood at the kitchen window and watched snow slide off the roof. Tessa brought me a mug of coffee.
"You sound calm," she said.
"I'm not."
"Good. I'd worry if you were."
My phone rang again before I could answer. Adrian's name appeared on the screen.
I almost let it go to voicemail. Instead, I took the call.
"I got the hearing notice," he said.
"So did I."
"You'll
