“According to these updated terms,” Marcus continued, “any transfer of funds exceeding ten thousand dollars requires the written consent of the primary heir.”

“That would be Emma,” Lorna said, a small, cold smile appearing on her lips.

Grant stared at the document in front of Arthur, his jaw tightening.

“This is a administrative roadblock,” Grant said, trying to keep his voice level. “We have vendor commitments that must be met.”

“Speaking of vendors,” Marcus said, reaching back into his leather briefcase.

He pulled out a slim, blue folder and opened it on the table.

“My office conducted a routine review of the foundation’s recent digital marketing expenditures,” Marcus said.

The room was completely silent, save for the rain tapping against the high glass windows.

“We discovered three separate payments made over the last ninety days,” Marcus said.

He slid a bank ledger across the mahogany table toward Arthur Bell.

“Each payment was made to an entity registered as Hartline Media Solutions,” Marcus said.

Vanessa’s hand shook slightly as she reached for her glass of water.

“Hartline is a Delaware-registered limited liability company,” Marcus said. “The sole registered owner of that company is Vanessa Hart.”