“Your mother is gone. Tears won’t bring her back—so wipe your face, make dinner, and don’t look like a grieving child when my guests arrive.” That was what my husband said.

Unless, mister,” Harrison paused, making Mark’s heart pound with hope. There’s an unless there’s still hope, Mark thought. Mr. Harrison continued in an even colder tone. Unless it is proven that Mark has been a faithful husband who has respected and loved my daughter and me until the end of my days. But if it is proven that Mark has hurt my daughter’s heart, neglected me in my old age, or engaged in inappropriate behavior, this right of inheritance will be closed to him forever, and any financial access I might have provided him through the company will be immediately withdrawn. Mr. Harrison closed the document forcefully. A dry sound echoed.