Evelyn took a step forward, her boots squeaking on the wet wood.

“You always did have a dramatic streak, Helen,” Evelyn said.

“But you forget who built the foundation of this family.”

“You built it on a lie,” Helen snapped. “You committed fraud.”

“To save my own life,” Evelyn said softly.

Helen laughed, a sharp, bitter sound that was swallowed by the wind.

“No court will care about your excuses,” Helen said.

“A fraudulent death certificate is a federal crime.”

“The moment I make that call, the entire empire falls.”

I looked at Evelyn, waiting for her to deny it, but she remained silent for a long moment.

The harbor patrol officer looked uneasy, glancing back and forth between the family members.

“Emily,” Evelyn said, turning her head slightly toward me.

“Do not let her intimidate you.”

“She has the papers, Evelyn,” I whispered. “She can do exactly what she says.”

“She can try,” Evelyn said.

She reached into the deep pocket of her yellow slicker.

She pulled out a small, water-resistant leather folder and held it up.

“You think you are the only one who kept records, Helen?” Evelyn asked.