The lawyer held the final page between his fingers.

Even the church bells outside seemed to fall silent.

Evan stared at the document as though it were a loaded weapon pointed directly at his chest.

“Read it,” I said.

My voice sounded stronger than I felt.

Mr. Halden nodded.

“This addendum was signed and notarized six days before Emma Vale’s death.”

The paper crackled softly.

Then he began.