One last glance in the mirror confirmed that the make-up, hair and attitude were firmly in place and she was ready to face this, ready to face whatever remained of her family before leaving them behind her, just a distant memory.
Taking a deep breath and one last glance in the mirror to ensure the pinstriped suit was laid straight, she grabbed her bag and keys and left the apartment.
As her car sped out of the car park a large man stepped from behind the shadows of the building, watching her as he had done for many years he knew today was just the beginning.
Mary drew her car into the last remaining space and cut the engine, she wasn't aware of another pair of eyes watching from the alley. They saw a young woman, dressed beyond her years, in a suit wearing far too much make-up with her long auburn hair tied into a severe bun at the nape of her neck. The man grimaced slightly under the mask he wore, he knew they had been partly responsible for the act she now carried, and this wasn't the real Mary it was a brave front for the world to see. He continued to watch as she locked her car and headed into the start of a new life.
Mary stood in front of the imposing wooden doors which had a simple brass plaque bearing the names Messrs Thorncroft and Alcon, Solicitors. Her eyes lingered on the sign for a few seconds before pressing the intercom and announcing her presence; the wooden door emitted a buzz and Mary pushed to gain entrance. Letting the door swing shut and finding herself in a large reception.
After introducing herself to the receptionist she was told to go straight through as Mr Thorncroft was awaiting her arrival.
The office was light and airy, with a large window that faced into the open street, blinds gave the comfort of some privacy. At his initiation Mary took a seat in front of a large pine desk, which supplied ample room for all the neatly stacked papers.
Her eyes settled on Mr Thorncroft, a balding middle-aged man who appeared to have an air of authority.
"Thank you for attending this meeting at such short notice. As you are aware both your parents met a tragic end while on holiday and due to this I have to inform you as to the contents of the will and how that relates to you." He paused a moment to ensure that Mary was listening and then spoke again in a very well practiced monotone voice.
"Your parents had a very extensive estate which is why it has taken so long to draw this matter to a close, however probate has now been granted. In basis you have inherited half the estate."
Mary nodded until the final words were acknowledged in her brain.
"What do you mean half the estate? Who gets the other half?" Mary sat bolt up right, her eyes wide.
Mr Thorncroft looked slightly taken a back but recovered quickly.
"The remaining half of the estate, less a few small legacies, has been left to your sister, naturally, she is already aware of the situation."
Mary just nodded and the rest of the meeting went by in a blur, before knowing it she was back outside the building, her mind reeling.
Watching from his window, Mr Thorncroft saw Mary standing in front of the door, his head turning slightly to acknowledge the opening of a side door as two huge men entered the room.
"She took the news exactly as you said she would, Taker." Mr Thorncroft turned to look at the near 7ft, muscled and tattooed man who nodded in reply. They all turned back to watch Mary as she seemed to shake herself and walk back in the direction of her car.
Taker turned to his masked brother and nodded, then they made their way to the door.
"Thank you for all your help in the matter." Taker's deep southern drawl enveloped the room.
"You are most welcome, I hope the rest sorts itself out alright for you." And with that Taker and Kane disappeared in front of a smiling Mr Thorncroft.