Sedona: City of Refugees

Jessica sliced up her steak sandwich, devouring the red meat like she devoured men. Philip also knew Jessica could never live a life without wealth. Her high-priced sexual haunts demanded such resources.

Suddenly, Jessica put her fork down, addressing her uncle. “What would be the difference between splitting the estate three ways to four?”

Philip considered the question before he answered. “Like traveling first class on the Concorde compared to tourist class on any domestic airline.”

There was silence as the two women considered the alternative. Surprisingly, Natalie was the first to respond. “What can I do to help?”

Jessica also nodded, understanding the financial implications.

Philip smiled for the first time. It seemed his nieces did understand more than vortex meditation sites and sex.

“Look…this is the story. Scott was an alcoholic, but a contributing member of Sedona society. He loved Sedona and was president of the chamber, you name it and he was involved. Still, alcoholism had him by the throat and for some unknown reason while under the influence, he changed his will. All of that will be documented to the court. I just want to make sure you both agree to it.”

Jessica was still worried. “Say for instance we can’t convince the judge about Daddy’s alcoholism and Kathleen inherits one-fourth of the estate. Can’t she stop the exchange of the property if she owns part of it?”

“No. Your father named me the estate’s executor, and I can do what I believe to be in the best interest of all the heirs. That would include the land exchange whether Kathleen likes it or not. I’m quite sure as a reporter Kathleen is no longer living in the lap of luxury. Certainly, Kathleen has a practical side.”

Philip paid the bill with his American Express Gold Card, leaving the waiter a large tip in the hopes he would not repeat anything he might have heard. As he followed his nieces out of the dining room, he inwardly laughed because of their petty concerns about Kathleen.

Don’t worry, ladies, Philip thought. I’ll make certain Kathleen gets what she deserves.