“They will scramble to distance themselves from her,” Nora said. “Margaret’s entire social empire is built on the loyalty of those elite donors. Once they realize she is under federal investigation for grand larceny, they will back out.”

I looked at Nora, then at Richard.

For the first time in two years, the suffocating grip of fear began to loosen.

“I want my daughters to have what their father left them,” I said.

“They will,” Richard said. “I promise you, Emily.”

Nora’s fingers flew across the keyboard as she began drafting the emergency motions.

The office was quiet except for the rapid clicking of the keys.

I sat back in my chair, staring at the scanned signature of my late husband.

I remembered him holding Lily in the hospital when she was born, promising her that he would always protect her.

He had tried to protect us.

Margaret had simply torn his promises away.

Suddenly, the quiet of the room was broken by a sharp, vibrating sound.

My phone, resting on the corner of the desk, lit up.

An unknown number was flashing on the screen.