Chapter 2: The Secret Hidden in the Will
Chapter 2: The Secret Hidden in the Will
That evening, the Pierce family attorney unlocked Richard Pierce's final testament.
Christopher had never read the complete document after his father's death.
The lawyer adjusted his glasses.
"There is one clause Mr. Pierce requested remain sealed until absolutely necessary."
He opened the envelope.
"'Should anything suspicious happen to my granddaughter Emma, all assets under the Pierce Trust shall immediately transfer into a protected charitable foundation under Emma's name. No future spouse, guardian, or extended family member may inherit any portion of the estate.'"
Silence filled the room.
Christopher frowned.
"My father expected this?"
The lawyer nodded sadly.
"He told me he feared someone would see Emma as an obstacle instead of a child."
Juliette collapsed into a chair.
She had believed Emma's death would make her own son the heir.
Instead...
It would leave her with nothing.
Christopher slowly looked toward the family portraits lining the walls.
For the first time...
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He understood why his father had always insisted that Emma never be left alone.
He simply hadn't understood the warning until it was almost too late.
