I scrolled through my contacts and selected Andrew's number. My brother's voice came through after a few rings, warm and familiar.
"Harry? It's been ages. What's up?"
"Andrew," I began, my voice strained but steady. "Is your research team still hiring?"
There was a pause, the faint crackle of the line betraying his surprise. "Finally decided to take the leap? What happened? Don't tell me you're actually leaving your precious wife."
I forced a faint smile, even though he couldn't see it. "She doesn't know. And she won't find out."
Andrew's tone shifted, more serious now. "Harry... are you okay?"
I hesitated, glancing toward the half-closed bedroom door. The distant clinks and clangs of Alexa still echoed from the kitchen. "I just need a change of scenery," I said at last, evading the question. "Can you help me with the paperwork?"
"Of course," he said, though his tone was laced with concern. "I'll send over the details tonight."
"Thanks." I hung up before he could ask anything further.
***