Evelyn had owned a small rental property and maintained several investment accounts.
After her death, Vivian told Harper and Riley that medical expenses had consumed almost everything.
Harper had never questioned it.
When Mara reviewed Harper’s history, however, she recognized the family name and asked whether Harper had ever received documents from Evelyn’s estate.
Harper had not.
That morning, before Vivian arrived, Mara had emailed her a scanned copy of Evelyn’s trust summary.
Harper had not placed it in the clear folder.
She had placed it in the sealed envelope.
Ms.
Alvarez again instructed Vivian and Riley to leave.
This time, Vivian complied.
Her confidence had begun to fracture.
At the elevator, she turned back.
“Do not let strangers poison you against your family.”
Harper stood inside her apartment with one hand on the door.
“Strangers came to my wedding.”
Then she closed it.
The lock clicked into place.
