Page 311 of Reaper Said Mine

"Truth isn't the issue."

Around us, the room seems to lean closer. Journalists have an instinct for conflict, and everyone senses blood in the water.

"Then what is?"

"The timing."

I laugh. An actual laugh.

Several people glance over.

Dawson looks annoyed.

Good.

"Timing."

"Yes."

His voice grows firmer.

"Responsible journalism requires understanding consequences."

I nod.

"It does."

For one hopeful second he thinks he's making progress.

Then I continue.

"And responsible leadership requires not helping cover them up."

The silence afterward feels enormous.

Dawson's face hardens completely. The mentor vanishes. The professional facade disappears. What remains isn't a villain or a monster. It's something more frustrating: a pragmatist willing to sacrifice truth whenever truth becomes inconvenient.

"You have no idea how complicated this is."

I stand slowly. My ribs protest immediately, sending a dull ache through my side, but I ignore it. Around us, conversations stop. Every eye in the room follows the exchange.

Good.

Let them watch.

Too many important conversations happen behind closed doors.

Not today.

"No."

My voice remains calm.

"I know exactly how complicated it is."

Dawson folds his arms.

"Do you?"