“Of course.” He scans the document rapidly. “Ah, here we are. Further to the topic of investments, he retained several of the, and I quote, ‘most stable, long-term investments,’ for the purposes of securing your future interests, but these can be managed at your convenience, as you see fit. The value of these investments currently totals just over one million dollars. Again, Mr. McCleary can provide you with all the information you require.”

“A million dollars in investments,” I repeat. “Adrian, you absolute shitshow. Why didn’t you tell me?” I clear my throat. “Is that all?”

“No, ma’am. Furthermore, he has a life insurance policy, purchased when you were first married, which he seems to have been aggressively funding. I’ve contacted them, and they are in the process of distributing the payout. Which totals, let’s see….” He consults a yellow legal pad on his desk in front of him, peering down his nose through his readers. “Five million dollars.”

I cough in shock. “What?”

“He specified payout terms. A lump sum of fifty percent, with the remainder paid as monthly installments. I can provide you with the breakdown, if you wish?”

“No, that’s fine,” I murmur. “Five million dollars in life insurance? You’re sure you have that number correct?”

One corner of his mouth turns up in something like a near-smirk. “Yes, Mrs. Bell. I’m certain.”

“Just making sure.” I have to lean forward, elbows on my knees, face in my hands. “I had no idea.”

“The only other pertinent item at this time is that he wanted you, upon the reading of this will, to be made aware that all outstanding debts have been paid. This part, I believe, I should read in his words.”

I close my eyes, nod. “Okay.”