Her laughter stopped.
“Should the current spouse contest this will, all remaining legal entitlements are forfeited, and evidence enclosed in Appendix C will be released to the appropriate authorities.”
Vanessa’s fingers tightened around the edge of the table.
Color drained from her face.
She knew.
Whatever Appendix C contained, she knew.
Mr. Whitmore closed the folder.
“Appendix C will remain sealed unless necessary.”
The room remained frozen.
Vanessa’s mouth opened once. Twice.
No sound emerged.
For the first time in her life, she had nothing to say.
She stood abruptly, chair scraping against the hardwood floor, and walked out without looking at anyone.
The door closed behind her.
And just like that, the performance ended.
Mr. Whitmore turned to me.
“There is something further,” he said quietly. “If you’ll remain.”
The others filed out slowly, whispering.
When we were alone, he handed me a smaller envelope.
“Daniel requested that you receive this privately.”
My hands trembled as I opened it.
Inside was a handwritten note.
The ink was slightly uneven, as if written under strain.
I betrayed you. I can’t undo that. But I can make sure my last mistake doesn’t destroy what little decency I have left.
