“My client wants to discuss an expedited settlement,” Donald said. “He is willing to relinquish all claims to the Hayes estate immediately.”

I leaned forward, my eyes fixed on the glowing screen of the phone.

“In exchange for what?” Lydia asked.

“A full release of civil liability,” Donald said. “And your agreement not to pursue criminal charges with the district attorney.”

Lydia didn’t hesitate.

“Your client just had his mistress’s house searched by the sheriff’s department, Donald,” she said. “We found the stolen inventory.”

There was a long silence on the other end of the line.

“We are prepared to make a very generous offer regarding the remaining trust funds,” Donald said, his voice dropping an octave.

I reached out and pressed the button to mute the microphone on our end.

“He wants to buy his way out of jail,” I said to Lydia.

“He knows the deed and the ledger are enough to ruin him,” she replied.

I unmuted the phone.

“Tell your client we’ll see him in court on Monday,” I said.