The phone is heavy in my hand.
Not physically. Not really. But it feels like it’s pulling my arm down anyway, like if I let go, something will shatter on impact.
“Solene,” Ethan says again. Softer this time. Like he’s checking if I’m still there. “Before lawyers. Before statements. Before we turn into paperwork… there’s something I never told you about Celeste.”
I don’t answer immediately.
I stare at the wall opposite me. There’s a faint c***k near the corner, something I hadn’t noticed before. It looks like it’s been there a while. Quiet damage.
My mouth opens. Closes.
This is the moment people warn you about. The one where you can still choose ignorance and call it peace.
“What kind of something?” I ask.
My voice sounds steadier than I feel. My leg is bouncing. I press my heel in
