“It’s a mistake,” Scott muttered, his face turning a dull red. “It’s just administrative paperwork.”

“Furthermore,” Pendelton said, “we have verified the timeline of your relationship with Ms. Jensen.”

He looked at Kayla, then back at Scott.

“The will explicitly disqualifies any heir who engages in public scandal or marital infidelity prior to the distribution of funds,” Pendelton said.

“That is a ridiculous, outdated clause,” Vance argued, leaning forward.

“It is a legally binding clause of a private trust,” Pendelton replied coldly.

He picked up a heavy black pen.

“Based on the evidence of fraud and the clear breach of the fidelity terms, I am issuing a formal ruling,” Pendelton said.

He signed his name at the bottom of the document with a sharp, scratching sound.

“Scott Collins is officially disqualified from receiving any portion of the seven point three million dollar inheritance,” Pendelton said.

The words hung in the quiet room.

Kayla gasped, her hand dropping from her stomach to her lap.

“You can’t do that,” Scott whispered. “That’s my money. She promised me.”

“She promised you a legacy based on trust, Mr. Collins,” Pendelton said. “Which you broke.”