“Your mother handled her money with great skill, care and precision,” Arthur said.

“I’d like to see the file,” I said.

Arthur leaned back in his heavy leather chair, his hands still laced over his stomach.

“That file is closed, sealed and entirely confidential,” he said.

“I’m not allowed to open it for you, your neighbors or anyone else.”

“I’m her only living relative, Arthur,” I said.

“I have to settle her estate, I suppose.”

“Your mother paid me well to keep her business her own business, I suppose,” Arthur said.