Nathan’s POV

The drive to Ellen's friend's place was thick with tension, an oppressive quiet hanging between Grace and me like a storm cloud ready to burst. Ever since that fateful morning when Grace discovered me in a hotel room with another woman—the lowest point of my existence—Ellen had wielded her knowledge like a weapon.

She'd summon me to her place with snacks or cash in hand, and if I hesitated, she'd threaten to expose everything to Grace via a quick call or text. I felt ...