My phone buzzed with a text from Mac Whitney: “I read about you and Elliott in the papers. It doesn’t sound too good. My daddy told me once never to get in the middle of a marital situation. Having just gotten out of one myself, I can see you are headed for some domestic turbulence. If you need me for anything, I’m there for you. In my opinion, no one can touch your talent. I still consider you my friend and partner.” My inbox populated with other clients who had decided “to go in a different direction.” Only Mac, and my beloved college cafeterias, didn’t desert me. How was I going to rebuild my career and my life?

I strolled to the back of the restaurant with a false confidence. Lea followed me along with Rex. I pulled the accounts up on the screen. I started printing the pages. I wanted to add up the cash advances.

“I hope you’re getting everything you need,” Elliott appeared in the doorway startling me. “Bailey, Rex, and Lea: I’m just deciding which one of you three I will fire first,” he followed.

“There’s no need to get testy and no need to fire me. I’m not even on the payroll. Considering what Rex and Lea do around here for you, I would think seriously about your next step,” I said, equally as calmly.

“Lea, you’re fired,” Elliott said as if I had never spoken. Tears welled up in her eyes, and I went over to comfort her. “Maybe you’ll choose more wisely next time. Rex, we have a dinner crowd to get ready for. Work up the specials, and I’ll see you in a minute. Lea, leave us alone—now.” She hesitated but then left. My anger returned—so quickly it scared me.

Elliott patted his jacket pocket. “You’ll be happy to know I was served yesterday with your little love letter. Divorce papers? Asset freeze? Nice move, Bailey. Let’s see. You called me a drug addict, thief, and dangerous to your mental, physical, and emotional health. You’ll never be able to make a case against me. I have never ever laid a hand on you. You have no grounds. And I can sue your ass for defaming my character and endangering my livelihood,” he said. He sounded sure. So confident.

“If anything, you’re the one who has defamed my character and reputation, talking to Mac Whitney like that. I wouldn’t worry about your livelihood at all, Elliott. This city is full of drug addicts doing masterful jobs each and every day. No one gives a damn so long as you serve a five-star meal,” I pushed back.