Inside, the manager greeted her with a reserved nod. “Mrs. Hale, we’ve been expecting you,” he said. He led her down a long corridor lined with heavy steel doors. The air smelled faintly metallic, like secrets sealed too long. Maggie’s hands shook as she followed.
The manager opened a vault door, guiding her to a small private room. “Take your time,” he said gently, placing a slim box on the table. Maggie nodded, barely able to breathe. Alone now, she slid the key into the lock, her heart pounding in her ears.