“How much was his inheritance?”
I hesitated.
Not because she deserved the answer.
Because suddenly the entire tragedy had been reduced to a number.
“Approximately 3.2 million dollars, depending on valuation.”
Vanessa stared at Daniel.
Three point two million.
Gone.
Not because I took it.
Not because Judge Mercer took it.
Because Robert had attached one condition.
Do not prey on your mother.
Daniel had failed.
Vanessa began laughing.
It sounded almost hysterical.
“You told me we had to do this before she changed the trust.”
Daniel said nothing.
“You said if the guardianship went through, the inheritance was safe.”
“Vanessa.”
“You knew.”
“Stop talking.”
“You knew your father put that clause in.”
Daniel grabbed her arm again.
This time the deputy immediately restrained him.
Vanessa screamed.
“You knew!”
And that was the final piece.
