Marlowe’s voice came through the speaker, low and impatient. “Just let him keep paying until after the wedding. Tyler’s parents think Dad covered everything, and they cannot find out he did not.” Dad sighed. “And if he cancels the order?” “He will not. He never says no. He just folds.”

Then Mom spoke, and my hands went cold. “We told them Willow had a meltdown last Christmas and ruined the evening. That is why she is not at the table.” My daughter had never ruined a single holiday. She had simply sat quietly with her sketchbook, hoping someone would ask about it. Before I could breathe, Marlowe laughed softly. “Once the wedding is paid for, we will not need him at all.” Then the recording ended, and I sat very still in the staff room.