The invitation had been Victoria’s idea.

A mid-week industry reception at a downtown gallery—glass walls, low lighting, trays of wine that never seemed to empty. Victoria’s firm was one of the sponsors. Marcus was expected to appear as her husband and as a quiet show of support. Elena had been added to the list at the last minute because Victoria said it would be good for her to be seen as part of the household in public, and because the alternative was another evening of careful distance under the same roof.

Elena stood near one of the tall windows in a black dress that covered every mark. The neckline sat...