LENA

I turned back to my mother's grave.

"I did it, Mom," I whispered. "I stood up to him. I told him the truth. I didn't back down." My eyes filled with tears. "And I didn't shake."

The wind picked up slightly, rustling the trees around the cemetery.

I stood there for a long moment.

Then I pulled out my phone and called Julian.

He answered immediately.

"Lena? Is everything okay?"

"My father just called."

I heard him moving, probably leaving whatever meeting he was in.

"What did he say?"

"He threatened to sue me for breach of contract if I don't drop the investigation. He said bringing scandal to...