He drew out three folded sheets of heavy bond paper and opened them slowly on the tabletop.

“Article One concerns the main residence on Sharon Road, together with all related personal belongings, furniture, and vehicles,” Thomas read, his voice keeping exactly the same rhythm.

“These are left in full to Patricia Vance Ashford.”

Patricia gave one tight nod, her hands lying calmly on the table.

“Article Two sets out the cash payments to Spencer Walter Ashford,” Thomas said, flipping the first page.

“One cash distribution from the main commercial account, in the sum of fifteen thousand dollars.”