The anonymous note remained on Peter's desk long after the office had emptied.
Its message was short, but its purpose was obvious.
Someone wanted him to question every step he had taken toward trusting Caro again.
He folded the paper carefully before placing it inside the top drawer of his desk.
"We'll deal with this tomorrow."
Caro watched him quietly.
"You don't seem surprised."
Peter leaned against the edge of the desk.
"I'm beginning to expect it."
He looked toward the dark city beyond the windows.
"The question isn't whether our rival will attack again."
"It's where."
"And who they'll use."
His voice remained calm, but Caro recognized the exhaustion hidden beneath it.
For years Peter had carried every burden alone.
Even now, with trust slowly returning between them, he still instinctively tried to shield everyone else from the weight resting on his shoulders.
She wanted to tell him he didn't have to anymore.
The words rose to her lips.
