But then I got to the last section. It was titled “Appendix: Compromising Materials – SB.” SB – Construction and the Future. Peter’s Company. My heart stopped for a moment. There were documents in this section that showed something else. Invoices for materials from questionable suppliers at underpriced prices. Building permits issued with alarming speed. There was even an internal communication discussing the use of “cheaper but unlicensed concrete” for the foundations of a previous project.
My stomach turned. This wasn't just evidence against Ivaylo. This was evidence against Peter too. The folder was a double-edged sword. It could destroy his competitor, but it could also destroy him. Was that why he was so desperate? Not just because Ivaylo was after him, but because he was afraid his own secrets would be exposed?
I felt betrayed. Not just used, but lied to. The years of admiring his ambition, his “self-made” ways, now had a bitter taste. How many compromises had he made? How many rules had he broken? And how much of the luxury we lived in—the nice apartment with the big mortgage, the expensive vacations, the cars—had been built on a foundation of “unlicensed concrete”?
I looked up from the papers and saw that it was starting to get dark outside. I had spent hours in this cafe, absorbed in my husband’s dirty secrets. I had to make a decision. I could throw the folder away and try to forget about it. I could turn it in to the police, risking both Peter and Ivailo going to jail. Or I could try to use it to get us out of this mess.
But how? I didn't know who to trust. I couldn't get in touch with Peter. I was alone.
My phone rang. I looked at the screen. It was an unknown number. My heart skipped a beat. I picked up without saying anything.
“Ana?” I heard the voice of Maria, Peter’s sister. She sounded worried. “Thank God you picked up! Don’t call Peter, his phone is being tapped. All our phones are being tapped. I’m calling you from a friend’s phone. Are you okay?”
– I don't know, Maria. I don't know what's going on.
– Listen to me very carefully. You are in great danger. Don't go home. Don't go to any familiar places. Peter has received a threat. They want the folder. Do you know what I'm talking about?
– Yes. It's in front of me.
