I take a deep breath. This is my chance. I could ask him directly about what I overheard. About what “eliminating competition” really means. About the gun in his desk and the mysterious shipments.
But then I think of Mom. Of her medical bills. Of Diane’s warning to keep my head down and my mouth shut.
Is this a test? Is he waiting to see if I’ll cross a line?
“Nothing’s bothering me,” I say finally. “It’s just been a long day.”
He steps closer, invading my personal space. “You’re lying.”
My heart hammers against my ribs. “I’m not.”
“You heard something back there that disturbed you.” It’s not a question.
I swallow hard. “It’s not my place to question your business dealings.”
“No,” he agrees. “It’s not. But you want to.”
Our eyes lock. The tension between us could power the entire
