“Evelyn…”

The voice was soft, almost hesitant, at the gallery doorway. Evelyn, who had been arranging catalogs for her upcoming exhibition, turned quickly. Her breath caught at the sight of William—neatly dressed, but his face filled with uncertainty.

“I just need five minutes,” he said, stepping carefully into the room like he was walking through a minefield.

Evelyn placed the catalog on the table. “You shouldn’t be here.”

“I know. But this is important. More important than my pride. Even… more than my dignity.”

Evelyn stared at him for a long moment, but didn’t ask him to leave. William glanced around the gallery before reaching into his bag and pulling...