“This is exactly what we needed, Emily,” Nora said, tapping her finger on the notary stamp.

“This document is completely ironclad.”

“The notary is still active, and I have already contacted him.”

“He remembers Arthur signing this.”

“What happens to Margaret now?” I asked, holding a warm mug between my hands.

“She is done,” Nora said simply.

“The state attorney is filing charges of grand larceny, forgery, and conspiracy.”

“With Vale’s testimony and this document, she has no defense.”

Richard walked into the room, carrying a tray of small pastries.

He set them on the table and sat down beside me.

“How are the girls doing this morning?” he asked.

“They are sleeping,” I said. “Mrs. Alvarez is watching over them.”

“They feel safe here.”

“They are safe here, Emily,” Richard said, his voice gentle. “For as long as you need.”

“But according to these papers, you won’t need to stay much longer.”

“The townhouse is legally yours, effective immediately.”

“The probate court signed the emergency order this morning.”

I looked down at the blueprints of the townhouse that Nora had brought.