Unless Adrian became legally incapacitated before Eleanor’s death.
In that case, temporary voting authority could be transferred to a spouse or court-appointed guardian.
Adrian frowned.
Natalie could not benefit merely by marrying him.
Not unless—
He stopped.
That idea felt insane.
He closed the document.
Later that afternoon, Elena dropped a tray in the kitchen.
A cup shattered.
Natalie appeared instantly.
“Oh, for God’s sake.”
“I’m sorry.”
“What is wrong with you?”
“It slipped.”
“Everything slips with you lately.”
Natalie noticed Adrian standing in the doorway.
Her expression transformed.
“Oh!”
She laughed.
“Poor Elena. Are you okay?”
Elena looked at her.
“Yes, ma’am.”
Natalie crouched as though preparing to help.
Adrian stepped forward.
“I’ve got it.”
Natalie kissed his cheek.
“I’m going upstairs.”
When she left, Adrian knelt beside Elena.
She was gathering porcelain.
“Leave it.”
“I can clean it.”
“Elena.”
She stopped.
He lowered his voice.
“Is Natalie mistreating you?”
Elena’s hand froze.
Then resumed picking up shards.
“No, sir.”
“That wasn’t an answer.”
“She’s your fiancée.”
“I know who she is.”
Elena remained silent.
“Has she threatened your job?”
“No.”
“Has she deliberately blamed you for things you didn’t do?”
Elena finally looked at him.
Fear entered her face.
Not fear of Natalie.
Something larger.
“Mr. Cole, please.”
“Please what?”
“Don’t ask me questions.”
Adrian stared at her.
“Why?”
