“Did you personally speak to him about his own funeral plans?” Martha questioned directly.

Valerie glanced nervously toward a broad-shouldered man standing near the front row of chairs.

He wore an expensive gray suit despite the heavy summer heat, his silver hair was combed neatly back, and a small gold pin shined brightly on his jacket lapel.

Samuel Vance, Christopher’s senior business associate, stepped forward with an fake smile.

“Martha, please calm down.

This sudden loss has been a terrible shock for all of us.”

Martha stared at him intently.