The studio lights were blinding, hot against Zoe's skin, but Chloe never let go of her hand. The cameras were already rolling, the exclusive interview broadcast live across major networks, headlines spinning in real time: "Chef Breaks Silence on Harassment Claims Against Renowned Restaurateur."

Zoe's voice trembled at first, the weight of a nation's gaze pressing down on her. But when the interviewer leaned in, asking softly, "Why now?

Why speak out?" She drew strength from Chloe's fingers ...