He recommended reviewing the property and charitable arrangements separately.

Julia agreed.

The hospital pledge should be honored according to its lawful terms.

Arthur’s remaining estate could be addressed through appropriate agreements if he chose.

Our marriage needed an honest financial framework.

And both of us required an opportunity to consider those questions without threats or public theatrics.

Arthur sat with his hands folded.

For the first time, I saw something beneath his pride.

Fear.

He was wealthy.