I take a deep breath before responding, trying to find the right words. "Robert," I begin carefully, "I can't make any promises about what we'll do until we have more information. But I promise that if it comes down to this, we'll handle it together and make sure everyone involved is held accountable." My heart aches at the thought of betraying Ray like this, but I know I owe it to Robert and Orcas Software as well.

I freeze in place as I take in the sight before me: you passed out on the floor with an empty whiskey glass beside you and a faint hint of perfume lingering in the air. My heart sinks, knowing that this must be connected to what happened last night. Gently, I kneel down next to you and shake your shoulder. "Ray? Wake up."

Your eyelids flutter open, revealing bloodshot eyes. "Sadie," you slur, sounding disoriented. "What's going on?"