T he murmurs of people in dark suits filled the conference room, creating a hushed air of expectancy. John Rothman was in the corner talking to his lawyers, with his wife standing next to him. His wife’s cancer was thankfully in remission. Hunter was seated across from Genevieve, next to Colette. Genevieve looked up and nodded hello. At the credenza in the corner, two associates were double-checking that the documents were in the proper order. Audrey took her seat next to Colette. Colette ignored her. Mohan brought over a document and held a rushed conversation with Colette.

Hunter asked if everybody was ready to begin. Mrs. Rothman asked if there was a room where she could make a private phone call.

Genevieve asked, “Perhaps Audrey could help us find a room?”

Colette said, “Of course. Audrey would be delighted to escort you.”

No, not really. Audrey stiffened. A junior associate could have taken Mrs. Rothman; now she was missing the beginning of Rothman’s deposition preparation. But she said, “Of course. I’m sure we can find a conference room nearby.”

Genevieve was nodding. The three women left the room as Colette began.

“I’m so sorry to take you from the beginning of the preparation,” Mrs. Rothman said.

Audrey felt guilty that Mrs. Rothman had seen her reaction. She smiled warmly at her and said, “It’s really no problem. It’s just the preliminaries, and I’ll get the notes later. Now let’s see if I can find you a private room. And I was so glad to hear your cancer is in remission.”

Audrey walked down the corridor to the small room at the end. It was booked.

Audrey said, “There’s another room around the corner. We can check there. If not, let’s go to the main reception and see what’s available.”

“You know, John and Pierre go back years. I introduced them,” Mrs. Rothman said.

“I know,” Audrey said. “That’s why I find it so surprising that Pierre is making these allegations.”

“Exactly. I find it odd too,” Mrs. Rothman said. A shared glance of understanding passed between them. “Laila, his wife, was my college roommate. That’s how I introduced them.”

“Oh, I didn’t realize she was your college roommate. But you know, I’m the company’s counsel.”

“I know.”

“Oh.” They’d reached the room at the end of the hall. It was free. The three women stepped inside and sat around the small round conference table.

Mrs. Rothman said, “Thing is, this was not the first time Pierre called John on his cellphone to make a trade. There was at least one other time. About twelve years ago. John said he doesn’t remember it. But I do.”

“Why do you remember it?” Audrey asked, the room quiet.