Chapter 16
Chapter 16: The Legal Notice
Margaret's pride had been wounded, and a wounded narcissist always retaliates.
A week after the gala, a thick, formal envelope arrived via certified mail from a high-powered law firm in the city.
Daniel opened it in his study.
It was a formal notice of intent to sue. Margaret was challenging the validity of his father's trust, claiming "undue influence" and demanding immediate reinstatement to the estate, as well as a massive sum for "emotional distress."
Daniel didn't panic. He picked up the phone and called his attorney, Mr. Sterling, the man who had drafted the original trust with his father.
They met at the law firm the next morning.
"Does she have a case?" Daniel asked, sliding the threatening letter across the polished mahogany desk.
Mr. Sterling, an older man with sharp eyes, chuckled as he read the document. He tossed it into the trash can next to his desk.
"Daniel, your father was a brilliant man. He anticipated this exact move six years ago."
Mr. Sterling pulled out a thick, leather-bound binder from his safe.
"Your father didn't just sign a piece of paper. He had himself evaluated by three independent psychiatrists on the day he signed the trust, proving he was of perfectly sound mind. He also left a video deposition, legally notarized, explicitly detailing his reasons for removing Margaret from the estate."
The lawyer smiled grimly.
"If her attorneys actually take this to court, that video will become public record. Every news outlet, every socialite friend of hers, will hear exactly what your father thought of her cruelty. It would be social suicide."
Daniel let out a breath he didn't realize he was holding.
"Draft a response," Daniel said. "Tell them we welcome the lawsuit, and we look forward to presenting the video deposition in open court."
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Two days later, Margaret's high-powered law firm quietly withdrew the notice of intent to sue.
That was the last time Margaret Harper ever tried to wield her power against them. She finally realized what Daniel had known for months: she had no power left.
