Mr. Hayes didn’t flinch.
“Your wife left explicit instructions,” he said evenly. “Her will is to be opened today. In front of her family. And in front of you.”
A hush fell over the room.
“There is a section Lily specifically requested be read aloud at her funeral.”
He unfolded a single sheet of paper, creased and worn.
“This is a personal statement Lily attached to her will,” he said. “Written in her own hand, three weeks before her death.”
Rachel’s grip tightened on Jason’s arm. Jason shifted in his seat.
Mr. Hayes began to read.
“If you are hearing this, I am no longer here. Jason, I know about Rachel. I’ve known far longer than you think.”
A gasp swept through the church. My mother covered her mouth. Jason froze.
“I tried to forgive you for our baby’s sake. But every lie, every late night, broke something in me. That is why I changed my will.”
Mr. Hayes paused, then continued.
“To my husband, Jason Reed, I leave nothing beyond what the law requires. You may keep your personal belongings and the car in your name. That is all. You have already taken enough from me.”
Jason jumped to his feet.
“This is fake,” he shouted. “She didn’t write that.”
Rachel tugged at his sleeve, whispering urgently as phones discreetly rose around the room.
“Sit down,” Mr. Hayes said firmly. “There is more.”
He continued reading.
