***
The following day, I sat in the back row of the little burial hall, staring at the casket. I glanced at Mr. Sloan, replaying every fight we had ever had.
What have you cooked up for me this time, old man?
What nasty joke have you left behind?
Following the farewell, the lawyer invited me to a small office inside the funeral home. An unfamiliar older woman was already seated there. She was staring out the window, seemingly defenseless.
I sat down across from her and tried not to stare too much. The lawyer opened his folder.
“Alright. I’ve collected you here to read Mr. Sloan’s last will. Two points concern you.”
I clasped my hands together beneath the table.
“Linda, you inherit Mr. Sloan’s house. The entire property.”
“What? Is this some joke? He left ME his house? Me?”
“Under one condition.”
Of course. There it was. The catch.
“You must take in Mrs. Rose D., here she is,” he said, nodding to the woman with the hat. And watch after her. She will live with you as long as she wants.”
Excuse me… Look after her? Why?”
Rose lifted her gaze and smiled softly. I felt guilty for even doubting her.
“Do not worry, sweetheart. I will not be a burden for you.”
I turned to the lawyer.
“Is this… mandatory?”
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