The Next Day, the Lawson family gathered in the Estate's grand, dimly lit drawing room. Anticipation and unease hung in the air. Frank Thompson, the family attorney, stood at a respectful distance, his professional demeanor poised amidst the familial tensions. As he met the intense gazes of Gregory's relatives, he inwardly prepared for the emotional storm about to unfold.

"To my grandson, Gregory Lawson, I leave the entirety of Lawson Group," Frank began, his voice steady. "However, there is a condition: should you divorce your wife for selfish reasons, the company will transfer to Marianne Sterling-Lawson."

A collective gasp filled the room, followed by disparaging glances directed at Marianne. Evelyn, Gregory's mother, and Clara, his younger sister, exchanged looks of thinly veiled resentment.

"What was he thinking?" whispered Barbara, Gregory's aunt.

"How could he do this?" echoed his mother.

Gregory remained composed, his eyes fixed on Marianne, who sat quietly across from him.

Sensing the tension, Frank hurried through the reading, striving to maintain control. "To my granddaughter-in-law, Marianne Lawson, I leave the Estate. She is the only one who truly cared for this place and me in my final days."

Another wave of disbelief rippled through the room. Clara's voice broke the silence. "This is outrageous! How could he leave the Estate to her? This Estate has been in the family for generations!"

"Three," Frank corrected, attempting to maintain order. "And will carry on to four or longer if Gregory and Marianne adhere to Mr. Lawson's wishes."

Evelyn approached Marianne accusingly. "How did you do it? Did you fuck him?"

"Excuse me?" Marianne's shock was evident.

"You seduced him, didn't you?" Evelyn persisted.

"How dare you!" Marianne stood her ground, facing her accuser.

"ENOUGH!" Gregory's voice commanded attention, silencing the room.

"But Gregory—"

"She is my wife. You will not disrespect her like that again. Do you understand?" he ordered.

Marianne sank back into her seat, grateful for Gregory's defense.

"Continue," he instructed Frank.

"Yes, of course," Frank hurried on. "To Clara, you will continue to receive your monthly allowance until the age of 25, with an additional sum to pursue your own ventures, a privilege greater than what my father afforded me when I began my journey in the business world."

Clara lamented her impending responsibilities, feeling the weight of adulthood settle upon her.

"To Evelyn, I express gratitude for the grandson you have given me. He is my true legacy. Though your relationship with my son was complicated, I hope my words encourage a reevaluation of priorities. You will receive five hundred thousand dollars, a reminder to live within your means and embrace reality."

Evelyn's response was a disgruntled grunt, offended by the late Lawson's words.

"To Thomas, Barbara, and Peter, you have been steadfast pillars of this family and the company. Each of you will receive three hundred thousand dollars."

Not a single protest was heard, and so, he reads on.

"To Frank, I award five hundred thousand dollars for your unwavering loyalty and friendship. May your dedication to this family and its legacy endure."

Frank braced himself for backlash but was met with envious glares instead.

"Well," Gregory chuckled, breaking the silence. "I expected you to receive more, Frank. This is rather disappointing."

Stillness enveloped the room as Gregory's laughter echoed, leaving Frank slightly embarrassed but resolute in his principles.