She waved to Leonor too, as she exited the office heading to her therapist appointment.
Callum let Leonor go first into the office, then followed her inside. They sat across from the lawyer, who studied them with an expectant smile.
"So, Callum. Leonor. It's nice to finally put a face to the names I've seen on paper for thirty years. Your father was—"
"Please don't praise a man who got two women pregnant and never had the balls to face the consequences," Leonor interrupted, raising a hand.
She was direct. Bossy. He admired that, actually.
"Well, he did send money," the lawyer offered weakly.
"Not enough," Callum said.
"Agree with him," Leonor added, pointing his way.
The lawyer sighed. "Alright. I hope what's in the will is sufficient. May I read it?"
They shared a glance and nodded.
"This is the last will and testament of Mr. Michael John Turner dated the 3rd of January, 2025. I, Michael John Turner, being of sound mind and disposing memory, do hereby declare this to be my final will.
To my children, Callum Jeremy Evans and Leonor Maria Moreira, I leave all of my personal estate, property, liquid and illiquid assets, and holdings, to be divided in equal parts-fifty percent to each-with full freedom to determine amongst themselves the distribution of specific items and properties.
These include but are not limited to my primary residence in Malibu, California; my London property located in Notting Hill; Blue Fire Ranch, the surf wave pool and resort located in Dusthaven, Arizona, and all vehicles, boats, personal belongings, and financial accounts under my name or trusts in my control at time of death.
Furthermore, I designate that the rights, royalties, and legacy materials-merchandising, surfboard designs, and any brand elements connected to the Mick Turner name in surfing be granted primarily to Leonor Maria Moreira, in recognition of her history as a surfer and prior involvement in the surfing community.
Any business holdings, financial interests, investment portfolios, or accounting documentation connected to the Turner Trust or Turner Holdings Ltd. shall be reviewed and administered by Callum Jeremy Evans, given his professional expertise in finance and auditing.
It is my express wish that my children approach the division of these assets with respect and fairness. Should any dispute arise regarding the distribution, a neutral executor—assigned in my separate letter of instruction—will intervene.
I offer no apologies for the time I lost, only the hope that something of value remains to be shared between those I leave behind.”
Callum blinked. He didn't know what to say. That was a lot. Way too much to divide with someone he'd just met. Judging by Leonor's expression—somewhere between stunned and deeply unimpressed—she was thinking the same.
He had no idea how financially savvy she was, but he didn't care much about the holdings. The more peacefully they handled this, the better for both.
The lawyer cleared his throat. "You each have been sent copies of this document electronically and via mail, plus a personal letter Mr. Turner wrote to each one of you. There is no contest clause included, should either of you reject the terms. You're free to ask questions or begin discussing distribution at your own pace."
Callum looked at Leonor. Her mouth was slightly open, like she had something to say but didn't know where to start.
"What do you think about brunch?" he offered, trying to lighten the mood. "We can discuss what dear ol' dad left us over some eggs Benedict."
Leonor inhaled, slow and deep. "Yes. I think that's a great idea."
"Good," the lawyer said, a little too enthusiastically. "See? He cared about you."
Neither of them replied.
At the door, Callum turned. "I truly hope you don't have any kids stashed somewhere, mate, but if that’s what you consider a good caring father…then I suggest you reconsider your relationship with them."
Leonor looked at him, surprised, and maybe a little amused, then stepped out without saying a word.
62
ALEJANDRA
con cariño y con cuidado - Valeria Castro
