Chapter 13 · The Name in the Vault

Philip spread the papers across Father's desk like he was dealing cards.

"Sign here," he said. "And here. Initial at the bottom."

Vivian didn't touch them. She stood on the other side of the desk, still wearing yesterday's dress, and tried to read upside down. The letterhead was from a judge's chamber. Guardianship petition. Incapacity review.

"What is this?"

"Protection," Philip said. He straightened his cuffs. "Your father's health is declining. Someone needs legal authority to act on his behalf. The board agrees it should be me."

She looked at him. Really looked. Philip had always been handsome in that smooth way lawyers are, but right now his face had the same expression he wore when he closed a deal. Satisfied. Finished.

"Father isn't incapacitated."

"He believes a con man is his son." Philip tapped the papers. "The doctors say his heart can't take much more stress. If Daniel—if that man—causes another scene, your father could die. We need to act now."

"We."

"The family. The business. All of us who actually care what happens to Ashford Hotels."

Vivian's hands were shaking. She put them behind her back. "And if I don't sign?"

Philip smiled. It didn't reach his eyes.