“Why, Dad?” Adrian voiced the confusion he and his brothers shared.

Hunter lowered his voice and said, “Your mom is inviting the Wiltspoonians over for a meal. You think that’s a good thing? Even if your mom thinks it’s a good idea, those people won’t be willing. They’re all intent on avenging the previous matriarch.”

Justin said, “They can only suspect that Mom was behind the previous head’s death—they have no proof. They’re people of status and position, and without evidence, are they really