I nodded.
But before leaving, I turned toward Damien.
He had returned to the office doorway.
I approached him slowly.
“Mr. Blackwood?”
“Damien.”
I managed a small smile.
“Damien.”
He waited.
“Thank you.”
“You don’t owe me thanks.”
“I do.”
I looked toward the chair where I’d been sitting.
“If you hadn’t been here…”
My voice broke.
Damien shook his head gently.
“You were the one who ran. You were the one who said no.”
I stared at him.
He continued.
“Don’t let anyone take that courage away from you.”
My eyes filled.
“Will Brandon come after me?”
His expression became serious.
“I can’t promise what another man will do. But the police know what happened, the restaurant is preserving its records, and you have people willing to help you.”
It was the first answer anyone had given me that felt both honest and reassuring.
I nodded.
Then Jasmine took my hand.
