Gathered For The Reading
Chairs scraped across the floor as everyone settled into their seats, the low murmur of movement filling the room. Mr. Dwyer set a thick folder on the table and instructed, “Phones on silent.” Laura took the seat beside me, her presence steadying my nerves. Greg and Donnie chose chairs directly behind us, a protective buffer, while Jacob sat across the table, arms folded, his posture rigid. The receptionist quietly shut the door and left, leaving us in a charged silence. I drew a long, deliberate breath and gave Laura a nod. Donnie leaned slightly forward, checking in. “You good?” he whispered. “Ready,” I replied. Mr. Dwyer cleared his throat, his gaze sweeping the room. “Let’s begin. We will proceed in order, as filed.”
Gathered For The Reading
The Reading Begins
Mr. Dwyer opened the folder and began reading, occasionally stumbling over a few lines and adjusting his glasses. “Residue of the estate includes the house, accounts, and personal items,” he recited, his voice formal yet careful. He paused, flipping a page and clearing his throat with a cough. Jacob exhaled audibly, a subtle tension threading through the room. Mr. Dwyer frowned slightly. “I’ll finish reading, then take statements,” he added. After reading a couple more pages, he lifted his eyes from the documents. “If anyone wishes to address this room, do so now.” I raised my hand, catching his nod. “Kim, you asked to speak.”
The Reading Begins
