As I move, I can already tell I’m about to have some issues.

Evelyn steps into the room, blocking my path. “And what about her?”

I freeze, her question throwing me off balance. My eyes meet hers, and I see the understanding there, but also the frustration. She knows what I’m avoiding.

“What do you mean?” I ask, but the answer is already clear.

“You’re not protecting her, Damian,” she says softly. “You’re keeping her in the dark, treating her like she’s part of this mess ...