“If your father tries to leave the room before we’re done, they’ll step into the hall.”

At three minutes after ten, the tall double doors of the downtown conference room swung open.

Richard came in first, in his tailored navy blazer and his heavy gold signet ring.

Evelyn was right behind him in a pale yellow cardigan, fiddling with her pearl necklace with quick, nervous fingers.

Chloe trailed three steps back, holding an iced coffee in one hand and tapping her phone with the other.

Vance came in last, his head tipped back, rubbing the back of his neck as he gazed up at the brass light fixtures.