Chapter 6 - Diane’s Real Reason
Diane denied moving the card.
The planner did not.
“I watched you take it,” the young woman said.
Diane’s face hardened.
“This is a private family matter.”
Robert replied, “You made it public.”
Megan wanted to leave.
She had survived war zones, military investigations, and years of physical rehabilitation.
She had no interest in fighting over a chair.
But when she turned toward the exit, Lauren blocked her path.
“Please don’t go.”
Megan looked at her sister.
“You looked away when they laughed.”
Lauren lowered her eyes.
“I was overwhelmed.”
“You were embarrassed by me.”
“That’s not fair.”
Megan almost smiled.
“Fair?”
Diane suddenly spoke.
“She was seated away from the family because she has a history.”
Robert turned.
“What history?”
Diane glanced at Lauren.
Lauren shook her head slightly, warning her not to continue.
Diane continued anyway.
“She disappears for years. She refuses to explain where she has been. She has no stable career, no husband, and no permanent home.”
Megan remained still.
Diane believed she was describing failure.
She did not know Megan’s address changed because she worked under federal protection after the classified mission.
She did not know her medical employment was a cover approved by the government.
And she did not know Robert’s son was not the only person Megan saved.
Megan looked at Diane.
“You asked Lauren to invite me because you wanted something.”
Diane’s expression flickered.
Robert noticed.
“What do you want from her?”
Diane did not answer.
Then Megan’s clutch vibrated.
Inside it was a secure phone she had not used in two years.
Only three people had the number.
May you like
The message contained five words:
THE PARKER FILE HAS BEEN OPENED.
