Chapter 11

Since she and Christopher hadn’t gotten around to drawing up a prenup, the law was clear on the rights of inheritance. A will could only confirm that and perhaps designate heirship of smaller, sentimental items. Was there something specific Lois wanted? If so, all she needed to do was ask.

Pushing down the bewildered hurt, Vanessa reminded herself she’d never truly understood Christopher's parents. Christopher had often commented that they cared more about their church family than their real one.

After getting Chloe a cup of coffee and a doughnut, Vanessa asked her if she’d mind coming with her to the study. “I hope y’all will excuse us for a few moments,” she said to the rest of the room. “I’ve got some things I’d like to discuss with Chloe.”

“I’d prefer to be there,” Lois announced.

Vanessa stared at her. She’d thought Christopher's mother couldn’t shock her any more than she already had. Turned out she’d been wrong.

“I’m sorry,” Vanessa told her fi