Chapter 7 - THE SECOND WILL
The courthouse steps were crowded with cameras.
Reporters shouted questions as William and Emma walked past.
Ethan stayed at home with a trusted private nurse and two off-duty officers Miller had arranged.
Inside the wood-paneled chamber Isabella sat at the defense table.
She wore a simple gray dress.
Her hair was pulled back.
She looked almost fragile.
Only her eyes remained the same.
Cold. Violet. Empty.
Her lawyer stood and held up a thin document.
“Your Honor, this is a holographic will signed by Eleanor Sterling three days before her death.”
He passed copies to the judge and to the prosecution.
“It names Isabella Vance as temporary guardian of Ethan Sterling in the event of William’s incapacity. It also leaves a substantial portion of the estate to a private trust controlled by Mrs. Vance.”
William’s face drained of color.
Emma leaned forward.
“That’s a forgery.”
The lawyer smiled.
“Handwriting experts will confirm the signature.”
Detective Miller sat in the back row.
He caught Emma’s eye and gave a small shake of his head.
Not yet.
Isabella turned her head slowly.
She looked straight at Emma.
Her lips moved without sound.
One word.
Soon.
The judge banged the gavel.
“We will recess until experts can examine the document. Court is adjourned.”
Outside the building a black sedan waited at the curb.
The driver wore dark glasses.
He watched Emma climb into William’s car.
May you like
He spoke into a hidden microphone.
“Target confirmed. Proceed to phase two.”
