DARIUS
I spent the early morning preparing to tell Rhea the truth about Monica's child.
I wrote it out three different ways. Practiced how to explain something inexplicable. That I'd kept Monica's secret even after the baby died. That I'd been protecting her for five years despite everything.
I knew how it would sound. Like I'd chosen Monica again. Like I'd prioritized her shame over Rhea's right to know.
But I had to tell her before Monica twisted the story.
It was nine in the morning when I decided I couldn't wait for the arranged meeting at two. I needed to tell Rhea now.
I was pulling on my jacket when Karian burst into my office, phone in hand, face grim.
"We have a problem. A big one."
He showed me surveillance footage from the Pack House security system. Monica met with thre
