“We’ve already been through this,” Scott said. “My personal life has nothing to do with my inheritance.”

“It does when the inheritance is contingent upon a character clause,” Jerome said quietly.

Scott’s attorney, Richard Vance, shifted in his chair.

Vance looked tired, his collar slightly wrinkled.

“My client has complied with all reasonable requests,” Vance said, though his voice lacked conviction.

Pendelton tapped a fingernail against the paper.

“Actually, he has not,” Pendelton said.

The room went completely quiet except for the hum of the heating vent.

“Two days ago, my office received certified bank audits from the Elm Street branch,” Pendelton continued.

Scott froze, his posture stiffening.

“These records show a unauthorized transfer of fifty thousand dollars,” Pendelton said.

“That was a loan,” Scott said, his voice rising. “My grandmother approved it.”

“The transfer was executed while Margaret Collins was unconscious in the hospital,” Pendelton said.

He looked over his glasses at Scott.

“The signature on the authorization form does not match her medical records or her previous signature cards,” Pendelton said.

Kayla looked at Scott, her brow furrowing. “Scott? What is he talking about?”