My investigators had already uncovered hospital records, bank transfers, forged signatures, and the clerk responsible for filing my fraudulent death certificate.

Elena’s folder completed the case.

During dinner, Vivian lifted her glass. “To family loyalty.”

I raised mine.

“To truth,” I said.

Her eyes tightened.

Then the doors behind her opened.

Elena entered in a simple black dress, Noah’s hand in hers.

Silence swallowed the room.

My mother’s glass shifted slightly between her fingers.

For the first time in my life, Vivian Hale looked afraid.

Vivian recovered fast. Predators usually do.

“This woman is unstable,” she said, smiling toward the guests as though Elena were nothing more than an inconvenience. “Security, escort her out.”

Nobody moved.

Her security team was no longer in charge.

Mine was.

I rose from my chair.

“No,” I said. “She stays.”

Cassandra’s father frowned. “Daniel, what is this?”

“A family matter,” Vivian snapped.