That night, when she finally slept, he wrote a long email to Andrea Ruiz. He told her he was prepared to attend the HOA hearing, answer questions publicly, and use his own name instead of waiting for the internet to return it to him.
Chapter Ten: The Contract in the Drawer
Marianne Harrington had spent fifteen years convincing herself that Richard’s habits were small flaws attached to a competent man.
He controlled conversations, but he got things done. He pressured people, but he provided for the family. He disliked being questioned, but he had built a successful company. With time, she had learned how to smooth his edges before other people felt them.
Labor Day destroyed that explanation.
At breakfast Thursday, Richard announced that the Oak Creek association would hold an emergency meeting the following evening.
“Miller’s conduct is unacceptable,” he said. “We’ll consider whether to impose fines and restrict his use of common facilities. Then we can move forward with the easement.”
Marianne watched him spread jam over his toast.
“How are those two things connected?”
Richard didn’t look up. “He’s a disruptive resident. The board needs to recognize that.”
“The road has nothing to do with the fight.”
“The man is the one delaying the road.”
She put down her cup.
“You sent Trent over there.”
Richard glanced toward the staircase. “Keep your voice down.”
“You did. I heard you talking to Eli before the party.”
“We organized a friendly challenge. Miller escalated it.”
“He said no. Repeatedly.”
“You’ve seen the wrong video.”
“I’ve seen the full one.”
Richard’s hand stopped moving.
For several seconds the kitchen was silent except for the hum of the refrigerator.
“Who gave you that?” he asked.
Marianne didn’t answer.
Richard stood. “This family has a lot riding on Thursday’s vote. Don’t undermine us because you feel guilty about a little fight.”
“What exactly is riding on it?”
“A development agreement.”
“How much?”
“Not your concern.”
She watched him walk away, and for the first time the phrase sounded less like arrogance than fear.
Marianne had a degree in accounting. Early in their marriage she helped reconcile Richard’s business statements; later, when the company grew, he hired professionals and told her to enjoy the freedom. She had not seen the internal financial reports for years.
