“Thank you, gentlemen,” Arthur said, putting the papers into his leather case.

“Is it over?” Margaret asked, looking up with tear-stained cheeks.

“The criminal referral will be withheld, assuming the liquidation proceeds without delay,” Arthur said.

“We will cooperate fully,” Miller said, standing up.

He did not shake Arthur’s hand, nor did he look at his clients.

Daniel remained seated, staring at the empty glass table where his future had just been signed away.

I stood up, smoothing the front of my skirt.

The weight that had been sitting on my chest for months suddenly felt lighter.

I could see the path forward now.

The sale of the Carter estate would easily cover the three hundred thousand dollars Daniel had stolen from me.

I would take my money, my inheritance, and my dignity, and I would leave this family in the dust of their own ruin.

“Emily,” Daniel said, his voice hollow as I turned toward the door.

I did not stop.

Arthur followed me out of the conference room and into the carpeted hallway.