“If these documents are leaked to the press, your mother’s entire life’s work is invalidated.”

“The state will freeze the foundation’s assets immediately.”

“Her name will be dragged through the mud, and the board will have no choice but to dissolve the legacy you are trying so hard to protect.”

My phone buzzed again in my pocket, a persistent, urgent vibration.

I looked down at the screen, seeing another message from Dina: *He says he cannot leave without your signature. It is about the estate.*

I looked back at Helen, whose eyes gleamed with a quiet, triumphant malice.

“All you have to do is sign the board resolution to cancel the forensic audit,” Helen said.

“Tell Lorna and Arthur it was a misunderstanding, and we can make this folder disappear.”

“I will not let you blackmail me,” I said.

I pulled my phone out and stepped past her, my shoulder brushing against her stiff tweed jacket.

Helen did not try to block my path, but her laughter followed me as I opened the heavy oak door.

“You have until five o’clock, Emma,” she called out after me.