The Year I Stopped Being His novel Chapter 479

"Willa, this will was signed while Mr. Jackson was in a fully lucid state. Two medical professionals were present as witnesses, the entire process was recorded on video and audio, and it has been notarized. It is completely legally binding."

"If you have any doubts regarding the will's authenticity, you are free to file a lawsuit with the court within fifteen business days to request a handwriting analysis or submit other evidence."

He paused, slipping the will back into his briefcase. His tone was strictly business, though not entirely devoid of empathy. "However, based on my thirty years of experience, this will is flawless in both form and content. I suggest you calm down first before considering your next steps."

Willa's eyes were glued to the briefcase in the lawyer's hand. Her chest heaved violently as her lips moved, struggling to form words, but only issuing fragmented, guttural gasps.

Suddenly, her eyes rolled back into her head, and she collapsed from the chair like a felled tree.

"Mom! Mom!" Tessa screamed, throwing herself over her mother's limp body. Her previous hostility and coldness vanished instantly, replaced by sheer panic and absolute terror.

Garrison reacted first.

He strode forward, crouched down, and checked Willa's eyelids before feeling for a pulse at her neck. He looked up at Tessa. "Temporary syncope caused by extreme emotional distress. It's not life-threatening. Lay her flat."

He turned to the stunned nurse lingering by the door. "Bring a gurney. We're moving her to the ER observation room."

Garrison followed the gurney to the emergency room, but Josh stayed behind.

He stood next to Sloane, looking down at her. She was leaning against the doorframe, both hands hanging loosely at her sides, her fingers curled slightly inward. He reached out and gently enveloped her fingers—they were as cold as if they had just been pulled from ice water, completely devoid of warmth.

"Sloane, your hands are freezing."

She had hated Jackson for years. Hated him for what he did to her mother, hated him for abandoning her. But now he was dead, and the target of her hatred was gone.

And yet, he wanted to give her his entire company?

It was utterly absurd.

"Sloane, you don't have to decide right now. The company, the inheritance—that can all wait," Josh's voice was soft but incredibly firm.

"But there is one thing that is absolutely certain—no matter what you decide, I will always be on your side."