James’s POV
The call came while I was in the car, driving Elijah to his music lesson.
He was humming off-key in the back seat, kicking his feet in rhythm against the booster seat like he was composing the next great symphony. I almost didn’t answer when my phone rang — an unlisted number, flagged Legal Counsel – Private Family Estate.
My gut knew.
Before I picked up, before the voice even spoke, I knew.
This wasn’t going to be about business.
This was going to be about blood.
“Mr. O’Connor,” the voice said smoothly. “I’m calling regarding a petition filed this morning with the Family Probate Division of New York County.”
I didn’t speak.
Just listened.
Let them hang themselves before you hang up.
“The O’Connor Estate’s residual clause has been re-examined under the new leadership
