Martha squeezed his hand tight.

“She almost refused to answer it.”

“Pathways opened because you were standing right there, Momma,” Christopher said gratefully.

PART 6

The state medical examiner formally confirmed Thomas’s biological identity through advanced DNA testing.

Official findings revealed that he had passed away less than forty-eight hours before the graveside service due to deliberate medical neglect and respiratory distress caused by high doses of sedatives.

Samuel adamantly denied ordering the man’s death, while Valerie claimed she honestly believed Thomas had passed away from natural causes related to his age.