Chapter 82: Naomi's Mother

Claire had learned that silence was never empty. It held every sentence people were afraid to say.

Margaret confesses she helped Victor but preserved a ledger as insurance. Marcus now wants it and believes Naomi has it.

Claire understood that the next choice would be remembered long after the explanation. Lucy remained the line neither of them would cross. Whatever happened between the adults, their daughter would not be asked to purchase harmony with her own safety.

She offers the ledger if Claire protects Naomi, expecting hatred rather than mercy.

"Truth offered late is still truth. It is not absolution."

Claire felt the old instinct to protect everyone from discomfort. This time she let the truth remain in the room.

The lights fail across Brooklyn while Lucy is at Naomi's apartment.