The sterile white of Michael Helwart’s private hospital suite was a stark contrast to the emotional carnage that had just taken place. The air, thick with the scent of antiseptic and unspoken accusations, seemed to vibrate with the aftershocks of Ceci’s departure. But a new shockwave was about to hit.

Nancy Helwart stared at the young woman trembling before her, her mind struggling to process the words. “What did you just say?” Nancy’s voice was a razor’s edge, cutting through the ...