Chapter 6

My sister-in-law's expression shifted immediately.

"What fourth page? Didn't you just finish reading it?"

The attorney ignored her, calmly unfolding the paper.

"Mr. Richard Montgomery wrote a specific instruction at the very beginning of this fourth page," he said, reading it aloud. "'The following is what I have to say last. I want to wait until they finish signing before reading it.'"

Arthur stood up abruptly. "Wait—what does this mean?"

"It means," the attorney said, meeting his gaze, "that Mr. Richard Montgomery requested I read the first three pages initially, holding back this final page until you had signed to confirm."

He paused slightly. "You have already signed. The will has officially taken effect."

Arthur's face went pale for a second. "This isn't right—I had no idea there was a fourth page when I signed!"

"Mr. Montgomery," the attorney replied, his voice perfectly level. "It is stated very clearly on the signature page: 'I confirm acceptance of all terms of the will.' All terms, including the fourth page."

Arthur opened his mouth, but no words came out.

My sister-in-law rushed forward. "You're tricking us! We're going to sue you!"

The attorney simply glanced at her. "Ms. Brooks, you are not a relevant party to this will. Please sit down."

"You—"

"Sit down."

The attorney's voice wasn't loud, but my sister-in-law froze. Intimidated by his unwavering expression, she slowly retreated to her seat.

The atmosphere in the living room shifted entirely, and the gathered relatives exchanged dismayed looks. Great-Aunt Clara's hand hovered in mid-air, a salted peanut pinched between her fingers, while Uncle Albert sat frozen with his teacup, completely forgetting to set it down. Everyone stared at the single piece of paper in the attorney's hand.

I was still standing by the door, my hand resting on the doorknob.

The attorney turned his attention to me.

"Mr. Elias, please come back and take a seat." He paused for a moment. "The contents of this fourth page primarily concern you."