“We will require a full appraisal of the Elm Street property,” Jerome said to Scott’s lawyer.

“Of course,” Scott’s lawyer said, already packing his briefcase.

Victoria stood up and adjusted her glasses.

“I will issue the formal executor’s ruling by tomorrow morning,” Victoria said.

She looked at me with a soft, knowing smile.

“I will need to schedule a meeting with the foundation’s board next week, Avery,” Victoria said.

“I will make myself available,” I said.

Scott slowly lifted his head.

His eyes were bloodshot, and his hair was messy where he had run his hands through it.

“You took everything,” Scott said to me.

“I only took what was mine,” I said.

I stood up, smoothing the front of my grey wool skirt.

I picked up my purse and looked down at him one last time.

“Have a good afternoon, Scott,” I said.

I walked out of the conference room, my heels clicking on the tile floor of the lobby.

Jerome followed close behind me, his briefcase swinging at his side.

We walked out of the building and into the cool autumn air.