She hesitated only a moment before sitting down, clicking gently, and her breath caught as she saw a folder labeled with her name.
Inside were scanned documents bearing her signature, and another file titled Strategy Calendar.
Tomorrow’s date was circled.
The document read like a checklist rather than a divorce, detailing transfers, access removals, filing schedules, and a line that mentioned relocation to a downtown apartment.
Rachel photographed everything, sent it to Audrey, and closed the laptop just as the garage door rumbled.
She moved to the kitchen and began slicing vegetables she did not need, grounding herself in routine, when Brian walked in with his familiar smile.
“Hey,” he said, leaning in. “How was the airport.”
“Busy,” she replied lightly. “Keisha’s flight left on time.”
He studied her for a second. “You seem quiet.”
“Just tired,” she said, meeting his gaze steadily.
He nodded, satisfied. “Tomorrow will be hectic.”
“So will mine,” Rachel answered softly.

That night, she lay beside him, listening to his breathing even out, then slipped into the living room with her laptop, Audrey on speakerphone, and a notebook filling quickly with steps.