“Six hundred forty thousand dollars.

Sandra’s appraisal was careful, and the value is right.”

“And what about the college funds for Chloe and her brother?” Margaret asked.

“Those accounts belong to the kids.

I don’t want Brandon or Melissa laying a finger on them.”

Margaret took a clean sheet of heavy bond paper from her desk drawer.

“If we turn them into irrevocable education trusts, I’ll act as the only legal trustee.

Neither parent will be able to take out one dollar or pledge the principal against corporate debt.”