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Malcolm was still talking in that grave, concerned way. “It’s important that we be honest now, so that when the holidays are over, we can look at getting you the help you need. There’s no shame in it. You’ve been through so much.”

“Right,” I said automatically. “Thank you. I appreciate your concern.” No one could ever say my sister didn’t teach me to be polite.

“If you’re still determined to go tonight, maybe it would be a good idea to drive together.”

“That’s very kind, but I might want to leave before you—”

“That’s not an issue. These things always run longer than I can take.”

“—or go out for drinks afterwards.”

Another of those little pauses.

“But thank you for the offer.”

“Are you sure? If you’re going to be drinking and driving…”

“I promise I’m going to behave. I’m not going to do anything to embarrass you or Bredahl.”

“You know there’s no question of that. I’m only speaking up because I can see you’re not…quite yourself. I think you know that, too. And I know Astrid would want me to step in.”

I took a deep breath, said pleasantly, “I know. I understand. This isn’t any easier for you than it is for me. I know you have my best interests and Bredahl’s best interests at heart.”

“That’s exactly right.” Malcolm sounded relieved. “Thank you for being so sensible about this. It makes it easier for both of us, doesn’t it?”

“Yes.”

“It’s all right if you change your mind about tonight. It’s bound to be very stressful for you.”

“I’ll be fine.”

“I’ll see you at the party then. Drive safely.”

“I will. You, too.”

I disconnected and phoned Raleigh.

“Hey, Caz.” He sounded startled and pleased.

I, on the other hand, hadn’t expected him to pick up, so I responded with, “Oh.”

“Wrong number?” Did he sound a little disappointed?

“No, not at all. I just—it doesn’t matter. Look, I want to get something on the record with you right away. I think Malcolm is attempting to lay the groundwork for claiming I’m not competent to take control of the company.”

“What do you mean?” Raleigh was all business now.

“He keeps talking to me about getting help for my mental health issues. He said Astrid had been planning to ask for me to be placed on suicide watch, but I know that’s a lie. If Astrid thought I was in imminent danger of doing away with myself, she wouldn’t wait five seconds to go to the authorities.”

“I agree. That doesn’t sound like your sister.”

“I’ll be the first to admit I’ve got some issues to work through, but I’m not cracking up.”

“No. I didn’t get that impression last night.”

Really?Because there had been a few minutes after he’d pulled over to render roadside assistance when I’d perhaps not appeared to be the picture of robust mental health.

“I think this is happening because Malcolm asked me to appoint him director and I declined.”