Our beloved Julian remains in an irreversible coma, and the family must ensure the continuity of our great firm.”

And the heavy double doors of the boardroom swung open with a resounding thud.

The room went dead silent.

I walked in, and behind me came Marcus Sterling, and two federal investigators, and Elena Miller, who wore a tailored gray suit now instead of a housekeeper’s uniform, and carried a thick leather folder.

Anthony’s handkerchief dropped from his hand.

His jaw fell open, his eyes bulging as though he were watching a ghost rise from a grave.

Two board members shot up so fast their chairs toppled over onto the carpet.