THE FIFTEENTH pt2

I am a few minutes late arriving at the solicitor's office, having missed my train, causing me to feel flustered. I am shown into his office to find my parents waiting for me, looking a bit stern, but Mr Thompson's demeanour immediately puts me at ease. We get the formalities out of the way first, and then Mr Thompson begins.

"I have known Mrs Albertelli—Clara—a great many years as a friend, but she only instructed me on her behalf six months ago when she was given her diagnosis. She has written you each a letter," he says, holding up three fat envelopes, "which she requests you take away and read on your own when we are finished.

"Her will was very simple, having already disposed of most of her possessions." We look at each other in surprise as Mr Thompson continues, "To Gina, she leaves her jewellery, the contents of the attic box…" He looks over his glasses at my mother. "She said you would know which one she means." 

My mother nods in