She kept her eyes fixed on Arthur, her fingers tightening around the strap of her leather handbag.

“This is an administrative misunderstanding,” Patricia said, her voice dropping to a low, steady register.

She took a slow breath, adjusting the gold-and-pearl brooch on her collar.

“Our family office manages dozens of international trusts,” she said.

“My name is on many of those accounts for estate planning purposes only,” she added.

“It is a standard legal structure designed by our corporate attorneys,” she said.

Arthur did not look up from his file.

“The firm of Sterling and Croft dissolved their partnership three hours ago,” Arthur said.

“Their managing partner is currently cooperating with the federal prosecutor,” he added.

The room fell silent except for the steady hum of the grandfather clock in the hall.

Grant looked from his mother to the paper on the table.

“Mother?” Grant asked, his voice cracking slightly.

“Be quiet, Grant,” Patricia said, not looking at him.

“These people are playing a game of intimidation,” she said.

“They have no standing to question our corporate treasury,” she added.