“He split the costs.”
“I’m not alone. Maya is here, and the children are with my aunt.”
My hands stopped shaking.
“Stay on the line,” I said. “Don’t speak until I tell you.”
I walked back outside.
Michael was drinking a cocktail while Melanie described their “new balcony” to his cousin.
I held out the phone.
“Don’t speak until I tell you.”
“Someone who couldn’t make it wants to congratulate you.”
Michael reached for it, but I kept hold and pressed speaker.
“You can say it now, Ryan.”
***
Ryan’s voice filled the yard.
“Michael, I know what you charged.”
Michael’s face drained.
“You can say it now, Ryan.”
“This isn’t the time.”
“You chose the time,” I said.
Ryan continued. “I compared the business records with the statements Jenna sent me. The meals, the resort, the bracelet, and the apartment deposit. I know all of it.”
Michael gripped my phone. “We can discuss this Monday.”
“I know all of it.”
“No,” Ryan said. “You spent months hiding personal expenses inside a business I worked for years to build. You lied to me every time I asked for receipts.”
Michael started toward the house.
I stepped into his path.
“Stay where you asked me not to make a scene. We all want to hear this.”
“Move, Jenna.”
