David’s face was a storm of emotions—shock, disbelief, but mostly fear. His voice trembled as he tried to regain control. “Mom, we were just concerned about you. Maybe we went about it the wrong way, but—”

I cut him off sharply. “Spare me your excuses, David. This isn’t concern; this is greed.” My heart ached even as the words left my lips. This was my son, my own flesh and blood, who had not only plotted against me but had stood by as his wife attempted to carry out their deadly plan.

Vanessa’s gaze flickered to the file, then back to me, her mind visibly racing. “What do you think you know?” she sneered, attempting bravado. “You’re bluffing.”