Vance leaned close to Rebecca’s ear, his voice harsh and low.

“Listen to me.

If Arthur walks that cassette across the street, you’re in county lockup by five o’clock.

You’re looking at twenty years in state prison for custodial fraud.”

Rebecca swallowed, her eyes darting between the turning tape and the signed death certificate.

“What do you want?” Rebecca asked, the smugness completely gone.

“Full legal and physical custody,” I said.

“An immediate voluntary surrender, signed and notarized right now.