Walter cleared his throat, the room falling into an expectant hush. “Richard has been meticulous in planning his estate,” he began, glancing around the table. “As most of you know, Mitchell Shipping is more than just a company; it was Richard’s life work. He wanted to ensure it continued to thrive after his passing.”
Thomas leaned back, feigning a relaxed demeanor, though his eyes darted nervously toward me. I held his gaze, unflinching, as Walter continued. “To that end, Richard included what he called a ‘moral clause’ in his will. It states that Eleanor Mitchell, his beloved wife, has the final say in the distribution of his assets. This decision is based on the character and actions of the beneficiaries.”
I felt Thomas’s incredulous stare boring into me, but I refused to acknowledge it. Instead, I focused on Charlotte, who sat quietly, the only member of the family who had shown genuine grief and respect. Her presence was a balm, a reminder that Richard’s legacy lived on in her.
