Sterling's fury, when Ivy showed him the message that evening, was quieter and more controlled than she expected, the particular, dangerous stillness that had always meant something considerably more serious than shouting.

"This is harassment," he said, voice tight. "Direct intimidation of a witness, during active litigation. This isn't a gray area anymore, Ivy. This is criminal."

"I'm not officially a witness," Ivy pointed out, though the distinction felt thin given the message's clear intent. "I never testified against him directly."

"You're his son's wife, connected to nearly every piece of the case against him, and someone on his legal team, or someone working for them, is clearly monitoring you...