Eleanor’s silence returned.
David understood.
Jonathan had not only manipulated Maya.
He had manipulated Eleanor too.
Perhaps by promising to bury the past.
Perhaps by inventing new threats.
Perhaps by feeding on the fear that had ruled both women from opposite sides of the world.
David looked at his mother.
“You were being deceived.”
Relief flashed across her face.
Then David continued.
“But that does not excuse what you did.”
The relief disappeared.
“I know.”
It was the second honest answer she had given him.
David held out the building key she had once used.
“I need yours.”
Eleanor stared at his hand.
“I’m your mother.”
“And Maya is my wife. Liam is my son.”
“I said I was sorry.”
“An apology does not restore trust.”
Her fingers trembled as she removed the key from her purse.
She placed it in his palm.
“What happens now?” she asked.
