Because Russell was gone, and I was the only person who knew how much of my heart had disappeared with him.
After the final guest left, Russell’s attorney approached me.
“Elena.”
I wiped my face.
“Yes?”
“Russell left instructions.”
My heart tightened.
“What kind of instructions?”
“They have to be followed in person.”
He glanced toward Russell’s children.
“With everyone present.”
“When?”
“Tomorrow. Nine in the morning.”
Then he hesitated.
“There’s something else.”
“What?”
“Your husband asked me to repeat one sentence to you before the meeting.”
I waited.
The attorney’s voice softened.
“Trust him.”
Part 7 — The Box
The next morning, I entered the lawyer’s office still feeling as if the cold from the cemetery had settled inside my bones.
Marlene and her brothers were already seated.
Marlene crossed one leg over the other.
“How generous of you to come.”
I ignored her.
She tilted her head.
