The Tuesday morning alarm felt different than Monday's. It wasn't just the start of the week anymore; it was the start of the consequences. The book launch had succeeded, but success brought visibility, and visibility brought risk. I woke up before the alarm, my eyes opening at six-fifteen in the dark. The room was silent, but my mind was already racing through the checklist of the day. Rome funding. Security briefing. Donor dinner planning. School pickup. The list was endless, but it was manageable. I had managed it yesterday. I could manage it today.
I slipped out of bed. Marcus was asleep, his breathing steady. I didn't wake him. He had stayed up late reviewing the advisory board contracts. He needed the rest. I went to the bathroom and splashed cold water on my face. The mirror showed
