As I sat there, the air heavy with tension, I tried to recall the conversation from our first meeting. Mr. Grayson had outlined the process, and I had nodded along, eager to settle my aunt’s affairs. The numbers had seemed reasonable then, or at least, that’s what I’d convinced myself.
« Could there be a mistake? » I pressed, hoping against hope. « Maybe something was added that shouldn’t have been? »
Mr. Grayson flipped through the pages, his expression unreadable. « Everything is itemized, » he said finally, tapping a finger on the sheet. « Administrative fees, processing, consultation… it’s all standard. »
I felt a rush of frustration. « But $12,500? That’s more than the estate itself! » My voice rose, echoing slightly in the otherwise quiet room. The lawyer’s assistant, seated outside, glanced in briefly, then looked away, clearly uninterested in the drama unfolding within.
« I understand your concern, » Mr. Grayson said, his tone placid. « But these are the costs associated with managing an estate of this nature. »
I stared at the document again, the numbers blurring in my vision. Options spun in my mind—consult another lawyer, request a detailed breakdown, stall for time. But each idea seemed fraught with complications and potential delays.
« Perhaps we can arrange a payment plan, » Mr. Grayson suggested, breaking the silence. « It might ease the burden a bit. »
His offer, though seemingly generous, felt like another trap. A payment plan would mean more interest, more time, more stress. I needed to find a way out, but the path wasn’t clear. I nodded, not trusting myself to speak without betraying the fear creeping up my spine.
« I’ll need to think it over, » I mumbled, trying to buy time.
« Of course, » he replied smoothly, gathering the papers back into the folder. « Take your time. » But the implication was clear—take too long, and the clock on this offer might run out.
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