“Closing costs, legal fees and real estate commissions added up to twelve thousand four hundred dollars.

The remaining balance of six hundred twenty-seven thousand six hundred dollars has fully cleared.”

“And the kids’ accounts?”

“Restructured as irrevocable education trusts,” Margaret said, her silver pen tapping twice on her legal pad over the line.

“Neither Brandon nor Melissa can pull out one dollar for living costs, mortgage payments or credit card debt.

The bank’s trust officer signed and stamped the documents before nine.”

I moved the receiver to my left ear and gazed out at the ocean waves.