Chapter 11 - The Woman Lucas Didn’t Expect
Denise Harper entered carrying a leather folder.
Lucas stepped toward her.
“This is a private family matter.”
Denise didn’t move.
“I’m here at Margot’s invitation.”
Elliot began gathering the papers.
Margot placed one hand over the agreement.
“Leave it.”
Lucas’s voice dropped.
“You’re embarrassing yourself.”
Margot turned toward Sandra.
“Before I sign anything, I want you to verify whether the signature on this authorization is mine.”
Denise opened her folder and placed the eleven-year-old royalty document beside three authenticated contracts.
The signatures did not match.
Sandra’s expression changed immediately.
“I can’t proceed.”
Elliot stood.
“This comparison proves nothing.”
“It proves enough for me to refuse notarization.”
Lucas grabbed the forged authorization.
Denise caught the edge before he could tear it.
“Don’t,” she warned.
His control fractured.
“This woman has been poisoning my wife against me.”
Margot finally stood.
Her knees were steady now.
“No, Lucas. You did that yourself.”
For the first time, she let him see that she knew.
Not how much.
Just enough.
Fear flashed across his face.
Then he turned gentle again.
“Margot, you’re unwell.”
Claire stepped into the doorway behind Denise.
“I heard the recording, Dad.”
May you like
Lucas went completely still.
👉 But instead of apologizing, Lucas looked at Elliot and said, “Get the original will out of the house.”
