My Husband Served Me Divorce Papers 3 Days After My Father's Funeral: 'It's Better This Way'

I never expected my life to unravel over a cup of coffee and an old letter but there I was sitting at my kitchen table on a Tuesday morning staring at my father's handwriting while my husband Ryan packed his bags upstairs my name is Addie and until today I thought I was living a perfectly normal life the letter trembled in my hands as I read it again my dearest Addie if you're reading this then I'm gone and the time has come for you to know the truth there a debt of the heart that must be settled

one that involves the Palmer more than you could ever imagine don't trust their kindness look deeper the answers are in the Old Maple desk in my study love Dad the stairs creaked and I quickly stuffed the letter into my pocket Ryan appeared in the doorway two suitcases At His Feet his face was a mask of practiced indifference but his eyes couldn't quite meet mine I think that's everything he said his voice flat mother will be here tomorrow to help sort out the rest I gripped my coffee mug tighter your mother why would Evelyn need to

be involved in this the house Addie she's concerned about the house concerned I let out a bitter laugh the ink isn't even dry on my father's death certificate and you're both already circling like vultures Ryan's jaw tightened that's not fair this house has been in my family for Generations your father my father what I stood up so quickly my chair scraped against the floor go ahead Ryan tell me what my father did he ran a hand through his hair a gesture I once found endearing now it just seemed calculated like everything else about him look

I know this is sudden but we both know things haven't been right for a while the divorce papers will be ready next week divorce the word felt like acid in my mouth 3 days after my father's funeral you're serving me with divorce papers it's better this way he said reaching for his suitcases clean break I watched him head for the door my mind racing the letter in my pocket seemed to burn against my skin what did my father know about the Palmer what debt was he talking about Ryan I called out just as he reached

for the doorknob did you ever actually love me he paused his back to me for a moment I thought I saw his shoulders slump a crack in his perfect facade but when he turned his face was composed almost pitying does it matter now the door closed behind him with a soft click and I was alone in the house that suddenly felt too big too empty and filled with Secrets I didn't understand I pulled out my phone and called the one person I could trust Jess can you come over I need your help with something in

Dad's study of course she answered immediately what's wrong I looked at the letter in my hand then toward the window where I could see Ryan's car pulling out of the driveway I'm not sure yet but I think my father left me a puzzle to solve and I have a feeling the Palmer aren't going to like what I find after hanging up I walked to my father's study the maple desk sat there untouched since his death last week whatever Secrets it held whatever truth my father wanted me to discover I knew one thing for certain Ryan

and his mother had picked the wrong woman to underestimate I pulled open the first drawer and began my search somewhere in this desk lay the answers that would either save me or destroy everything I thought I knew about my life and I was going to find them no matter the cost the sound of heels clicking on hardwood floors woke me the next morning I hadn't even finished my first cup of coffee when Evelyn Palmer swept into my kitchen like she owned it which according to the way she was acting she apparently did oh good you're

up she said setting down a large designer bag on my counter we have so much to discuss about the house I gripped my coffee mug tighter Evelyn you can't just I've already called the realtor she continued pulling out a stack of papers once we get this place on the market we can all move forward I'm thinking we should start packing up Henry's things today the Casual mention of my father's name made my blood boil no one is touching dad's things Evelyn's perfectly painted lips twitched darling I know this is difficult but you have to face

reality this house belongs ongs to the Palmer family your father was merely temporary custodian I thought about the letter in my pocket about the mysterious debt my father mentioned funny how nobody mentioned that during the 12 years I've lived here things change Evelyn began opening kitchen cabinets making little disapproving sounds Ryan tells me you're being difficult about the divorce just then Jess walked in through the back door our usual morning rou that suddenly felt like a Lifeline she took one look at the scene and crossed her arms Mrs Palmer Jess said cooly what a surprise

Evelyn's smile could have frozen hell Jessica I didn't realize you still dropped by unannounced I didn't realize you had a key to this house Jess shot back I've always had a key Evelyn's hand went to her neck fingering an antique locket I'd never seen before this house holds many memories for me something about the way she said it made me look closer the locket seemed familiar somehow like I'd seen it in an old photograph before I could place it Evelyn was moving again this time toward my father's study don't I said stepping in front of

her that room is off limits Addison she sighed my name like I was a child having a tantrum you're only making this harder on yourself Ryan has already agreed to the sale Ryan doesn't get to decide anything anymore I said and neither do you Evelyn's facade cracked slightly you have no idea what you're dealing with girl your father my father what I challenged echoing my words to Ryan yesterday what exactly did my father do Evelyn for a split second something like fear flickered across her face then her phone buzzed and the moment was gone she

checked the screen and gathered her things wek continue this discussion later she said heading for the door do try to be reasonable Addison some secrets are better left buried after she left Jess let out a low whistle well that was intense what's really going on Addie I pulled out my father's letter and handed it to her as she read it I paced the kitchen my mind racing there's something in Dad's study Jess something they don't want me to find then we better find it first she said handing the letter back but that locket Evelyn was

wearing didn't your mom have one just like it I stopped pacing mom's locket had disappeared after she died when I was just a kid dad never talked about it but I remembered it clearly an antique silver oval with a distinctive filigree pattern the same pattern i' just seen around Evelyn Palmer's neck Jess I said slowly I think we need to do more than just search dad's study we need to find out exactly what happened between my parents and the Palmer 30 years ago and what about Ryan and the divorce I thought about my soon to

be ex-husband about Evelyn's thinly veiled threats about my father's warning they want to play hard ball fine but they're about to learn that I'm not the same woman who used to just smile and not at Palmer family dinners I headed toward my father's study determination replacing the hurt and confusion of the past few days whatever truth lay hidden in that Maple desk I had a feeling it was going to change everything for all of us the maple desk held more secrets than I could have imagined after 3 hours of searching with Jess we found a

false bottom in the lowest drawer inside was a Dusty manila envelope stuffed with photographs that made my hand shake oh my god Jess whispered looking over my shoulder is that my father and Evelyn I confirmed spreading the photos across the desk they were younger much younger but unmistakable in every picture they looked happy in love even the time stamp showed dates from 35 years ago right around the time my parents would have first met there's more I said pulling out a stack of letters the paper was yellowed but Evelyn's distinctive handwriting was clear my dearest

Henry before I could read further the study door creaked I Whirled around to find Ryan standing there his face unreadable I thought I might find you here he said eyes fixed on the scattered photos mother warned me you'd start digging funny how everyone seems so concerned about what I might find I held up one of the photos want to explain this Ryan stepped closer then stopped something like recognition Crossing his face where did you get my mother's locket what he pointed to one of the photos where Evelyn wore the same locket I'd seen around her

neck earlier that locket it was my grandmother's no I said slowly it was my mother's I remember her wearing it when I was little the silence that followed was deafening Jess quietly excused herself squeezing my shoulder as she left Ryan picked up one of the letters his hands trembling slightly you need to stop this Addie he said but his voice lacked its usual confidence some things are better left in the past that's exactly what your mother said what are you both so afraid of he crumpled the letter in his fist I'm trying to protect you

protect me I laughed bitterly by serving me divorce papers days after my father's funeral by letting your mother try to force me out of my home our home he corrected automatically but there was something different in his tone uncertainty maybe even guilt I grabbed another photo from the desk this one showing my father and Evelyn standing in front of the house when was this taken Ryan because according to the date your mother knew my father long before she married your father long before she had you Ryan's face paled that's impossible she and dad were high

school sweethearts they were they I pressed or is that just another story she told you he turned away running his hands through his hair in that familiar gesture that now seemed more nervous than calculated you don't understand what you're doing if this gets out if what gets out the truth about your mother and my father or something else I stepped closer forcing him to look at me what aren't you telling me Ryan for a moment I saw a glimpse of the man I'd married vulnerable honest torn but then his phone buzzed and just like his

mother earlier the mask slipped back into place the realtor will be here tomorrow he said heading for the door pack what you want to keep the rest go to a state sale I'm not going anywhere he paused in the doorway you know what's strange when your father was dying he asked to speak to Mother alone she came out of his room looking like she'd seen a ghost the next day she insisted I file for divorce the implications of his words hit me like a physical blow before I could respond he was gone leaving me alone

with the scattered pieces of a past I was only beginning to understand stand I picked up another letter from the pile this one dated just weeks before my parents wedding as I began to read my hand started shaking again but this time not from shock from anger because there in black and white was proof that everything I thought I knew about my family was a lie and Evelyn Palmer was at the center of it all the realtor never made it to the house the next day instead I got a call from an unfamiliar number while

I was sorting through more of my my father's papers is this Addison Palmer the man's voice was professional measured this is Samuel green your father's notary we need to talk about what about the real terms of your father's will he paused and about Evelyn Palmer 20 minutes later I sat across from Sam green in a quiet coffee shop downtown he looked exactly like what you'd expect from a notary press suit wire rimmed glasses careful movements but there was something else in his expression worry maybe or guilt your father amended his will 3 days before he

died Sam said sliding a folder across the table he was very specific about the timing of this Revelation I opened the folder then nearly dropped my coffee the documents inside showed that my father hadn't just owned our house he'd owned the entire Palmer estate all of it that's impossible I whispered the Palmer have been living on borrow time and your father's generosity for 30 years Sam leaned forward but there's more Henry left everything to you not Ryan and he included this he handed me an envelope sealed with wax my hands trembled as I broke the

seal and read my dearest ddy by by now you found the photos you know about Evelyn and me what you don't know is that your mother's death wasn't an accident the truth is in the locket the one Evelyn Wears Like A Trophy get it back finish what I couldn't love Dad the coffee shop suddenly felt too small too public what are you saying Sam glanced around before answering I've been your father's notary for 20 years he trusted me with certain documents Insurance in case anything happened to him like what like being pressured to change his

will on his deathbed samk voice hardened Evelyn visited him that last day she tried to force him to sign new papers but I'd already filed the real will my phone buzzed a text from Jess Ryan's here with moving trucks Evelyn's supervising they taking everything I stood up so fast my chair scraped across the floor they're emptying the house they can't Sam said firmly as of your father's death you own everything including whatever's in that locket I rushed home to find three moving trucks in the driveway and Evelyn directing workers like a general commanding troops when

she saw me her hand went instinctively to the locket stop I commanded my my Bo carrying across the lawn the workers paused everyone out now don't be ridiculous Evelyn snapped Ryan tell her Ryan can't tell anyone anything about this house I cut in pulling out the documents Sam had given me because he doesn't own it I do the color drained from Evelyn's face that's not possible no I stepped closer should we talk about what's really in that locket about what really happened to my mother Ryan appeared in the doorway confusion written across his face mother

what's she talking about Evelyn's carefully maintained facade cracked for the first time I saw real fear in her eyes Addison please get out I said quietly both of you and Evelyn I want my mother's locket back today you have no idea what you're doing she whispered actually I do for the first time since dad died I know exactly what I'm doing I turned to the workers pack everything back inside now as the workers began returning Furniture to the house I watched Ryan and Evelyn Retreat to their car but before they drove away I caught a

glimpse of Evelyn's face in the rearview mirror her she wasn't scared anymore she was angry I pulled out my phone and called Jess I need your help again we're going to need to watch our backs because I knew now this wasn't just about a house or a divorce this was about murder and Evelyn Palmer had just become very very dangerous that night I couldn't sleep the house felt different now knowing what I knew every Creek every shadow seemed to whisper secrets about my mother's death around 3: in the morning my phone lit up with a

text from an unknown number meet me at Riverside Park 700 a.m. come alone R I knew I shouldn't go Jess would tell me I was crazy Sam would probably say the same but there I was at 655 a.m. watching Ryan Pace near the old Bandstand where we'd had our first date he looked terrible like he hadn't slept either when he saw me he stopped pacing but didn't come closer the locket he said without Preamble mother won't give it up she's she's not well Addie not well I kept my distance we're not willing to face what

she did you don't understand he ran his hands through his unkempt hair after you left yesterday I found something in her study records bank statements everything's gone the Palmer Fortune the Investments all of it she's been lying to me for years a jogger passed by and we both fell silent until she was out of earshot your father Ryan continued his voice breaking slightly he was supporting us all this time mother said she was managing the Family Estate but but really she was blackmailing my father I finished using whatever's in that locket to keep him paying

Ryan's face went pale blackmail no that's not then what I stepped closer anger finally overtaking caution why did my mother die in a car accident the same week she confronted Evelyn about her relationship with my father why did Dad spend 30 years paying your family's bills why won't your mother take off that damn locket before Ryan could answer my phone buzzed a text from Jess get home now someone broke in police are here my heart stopped what did you do what Ryan looked genuinely confused I've been here since Dawn waiting another text from Jess your

father's study is ransacked the maple desk is destroyed I turned to run but Ryan caught my arm Addie wait there's something else you need to know about the night your mother died let go of me I yanked my arm free if your mother touched anything in that study I was there the words exploded from him like they'd been trapped for years the night of the accident I was 12 I saw I saw everything time seemed to freeze in the distance I could hear sirens my phone kept buzzing in my pocket but all I could focus

on was Ryan's face the face of the man I'd loved who'd apparently spent our entire marriage hiding the truth about my mother's death tell me I whispered he opened his mouth but before he could speak a sharp voice cut through the morning air Ryan what do you think you're doing we both turned to see Evelyn striding toward us the locket bouncing against her chest with each determined step but something was different the chain was broken hanging awkwardly like someone had tried to snatch it mother Ryan started don't get in the car she snapped at him

then to me her voice deadly calm your little Breakin attempt failed next time don't send amateurs to Do Your Dirty Work what are you talking about she smiled cold and triumphant the police are are at your house right now dear something about a burglary gone wrong such a shame almost as tragic as what happened to your mother my phone buzzed again this time it was Sam don't go home meet me at my office I found something in your father's safety deposit box something about the night of the accident I looked at Ryan saw the conflict

in his eyes then at Evelyn whose hand was now clasped protectively over the damaged locket whatever truth lay between them I wasn't going to get it here this isn't over I told them both then turned and ran toward my car behind me I heard Ryan call my name but I didn't look back because now I knew the answer wasn't in the house or the study it was in whatever Sam had found in that safety deposit box and this time Evelyn Palmer couldn't stop me from finding the truth Sam's office was dark when I arrived the

door slightly ajar something felt wrong immediately but I was too desperate for answers to turn back Sam I called out pushing the door open papers were scattered across his desk drawers pulled out cabinets standing open in the center of the chaos sat a small metal box my father's safety deposit box its lid thrown back like a broken promise empty he's not here Ryan's voice behind me made me jump he stood in the doorway looking haunted mother got here first how did you I followed you he stepped inside closing the door there's something you need to

know about Sam green he's not just a notary he was there the night your mother died too my legs felt weak I grabbed the edge of Sam's desk what he was having an affair with my mother Ryan's voice cracked your mother found out she threatened to tell your father everything about the affair about the embezzlement about what embezzlement a new voice joined us about how I helped Evelyn steal from your father's company for years Sam stepped out from the shadows of his private office holding a gun but it wasn't pointed at me it was aimed

at Ryan I'm sorry Addie Sam said his professional demeanor completely gone I really did try to help you but Evelyn she has ways of making people do terrible things like killing my mother the words felt like glass in my throat that was an accident Ryan interrupted mother just wanted to scare her to keep her quiet but the brakes the brakes were cut Sam finished by me on Evelyn's orders the room started spinning I gripped the desk harder and my father did he know he figured it out eventually Sam's hand trembled slightly that's why he changed

his will why he left everything to you he knew Evelyn would try to destroy the evidence once he was gone the locket I whispered what's really in it pictures Ryan said quietly of mother and Sam from back then and and a USB drive with all the financial records everything that could prove what they did Sam's laugh was bitter your father was clever he knew Evelyn would never part with that locket voluntarily it was the perfect safe so now what I looked between them you kill us both add two more accidents to the list no Sam

Ed his grip on the gun just Ryan make it look like he attacked me tried to destroy evidence a tragic end to the Palmer Legacy you really think my mother will let you live if you kill me Ryan's voice was steady but I saw fear in his eyes your mother's being arrested as we speak Sam replied anonymous tip about financial fraud the police are probably at her house right now my phone buzzed in my pocket J sending another warning probably but I couldn't Look Away From The Scene unfolding before me shek still have the locket

I said all the evidence no Ryan reached slowly into his jacket she doesn't the silver chain dangled from his fingers the locket swinging gently I took it while she was distracted at the park everything you need to prove what they did to your mother is right here Addie Sam's Gun shift did slightly handed over or what I stepped between them you'll kill us both add my name to the list of people you've murdered to protect yourself Addie don't Ryan started but I kept my eyes on Sam watching his facade crack my father trusted you he

made you promise to protect me didn't he that's why you showed me the will why you tried to help but in the end and you're just another coward hiding behind Evelyn Palmer's lies the gun wavered for a moment I thought I'd gotten through to him then I heard police sirens in the distance and everything happened at once Sam luned for the locket Ryan shoved me aside the gun went off and as I fell I caught one final glimpse of my mother's locket falling open at last its Secrets spilling across the floor like blood the hospital

waiting room felt like limbo Ryan was in surgery the bullet had missed his vital organs but just barely Sam was in custody and Evelyn Evelyn was walking through the entrance doors like she owned them still wearing her designer outfit despite the handcuffs two detectives flanked her but her eyes found me immediately well well I suppose you're happy now sit down Mrs Palmer one detective ordered but she was already sliding into the chair across from me your son is in surgery because of you I said quietly my son is in surgery because he betrayed me her

voice cracked slightly for you just like your father betrayed me for your mother I pulled out my phone where I downloaded the contents of the USB drive from the locket want to see what I found all those transfers from dad's company the fake accounts the evidence that you and Sam used to Blackmail My Father for years you have no idea what really happened she leaned forward despite the handcuffs your precious father wasn't innocent he chose your mother over me used my love to build his Empire then discarded me like I meant nothing so you killed

my mother I loved your father she whispered fiercely everything I did was for love no Ryan's voice made us both turn he stood in the doorway pale and bandaged but alive everything you did was for control Ryan Evelyn started to rise but the detectives pushed her back down darling you don't understand I understand everything he moved slowly to sit beside me I remember that night I remember you making Sam cut the brakes I remember you telling me it was our secret that if I ever told anyone we'd lose everything tears streak Evelyn's perfect makeup I

protected you everything I did was to protect our family by killing my mother I pulled out one final piece of evidence a letter I'd found among the lockets contents or by threatening to kill dad if he ever told anyone the truth your father was weak she spat he could have had everything with me but he chose her then he had the audacity to feel guilty to pay us off like we were charity cases he paid you off because you threatened to tell everyone that Ryan was his son the words hung in the air like smoke

Ryan went completely still beside me what he whispered I handed him the letter a DNA test from 30 years ago that's why she couldn't let go why Dad felt responsible you're my half brother Ryan and she used that truth to destroy both our family Evelyn's facade finally shattered completely he never loved you like he loved me never I made sure of that every payment every secret Every Lie it was all to prove that he couldn't escape me couldn't escape us detective I said quietly I think we're done here as they LED Evelyn away her composure

crumbled entirely she thrashed against the handcuffs screaming about love and betray and revenge but I wasn't watching her anymore I was watching Ryan who looked lost in a way I'd never seen before I'm sorry I said softly I didn't know how to tell you all this time he murmured I thought I was protecting her but I was just helping her hurt more people helping her hurt you I took his hand not as a wife anymore but as something else something complicated and broken and real we can't change what they did but we can choose what

we do now he squeezed my hand back and in that moment I finally understood what my father had tried to tell me in his letter the debt of the heart wasn't about money or Revenge it was about the price we pay for the truth and the cost of keeping secrets what do we do now Ryan asked I thought about the house about the inheritance about all the Tangled threads of our shared history we start over not as the Palmer or the collinses just as ourselves through the hospital windows I could see the sun rising a

new day full of complicated truths and uncertain Futures but for the first time since my father died I felt ready to face it 6 months later I stood in front of my father's Maple desk now restored and sitting in my new home office the Morning Light caught the brass handles making them shine like new Secrets waiting to be discovered need help with that Ryan asked from the doorway he looked different now lighter somehow despite everything we'd been through the divorce papers had been finalized last week but our story wasn't ending it was just changing shape

just sorting through the last box I said pulling out a familiar envelope dad's final letter Ryan stepped into the room but kept his distance we were still learning the boundaries of our new relationship as siblings you haven't read it yet was waiting for the right time I broke the seal and unfolded the paper want to hear it he nodded settling into one of the chairs by the window the same window where half a year ago I'd watched him drive away thinking our story was over my dearest Addy I read aloud if you're reading this then

you found the truth all of it the good and the bad the love and the Betrayal I spent 30 years trying to protect you from a past that was always going to catch up with us but in doing so I failed to protect you from the one thing that matters most the weight of Secrets I paused glancing at Ryan his eyes were fixed on the desk where a framed photo now sat him and me as children at different birthday parties unknowingly connected by more than just marriage the dead I spoke wasn't just about money or

guilt it was about the choices we make When Love becomes Twisted by fear Evelyn loved me once purely and completely I loved her too but love without truth is like a house built on Sand eventually everything crumbles the doorbell rang and Jess let herself in carrying coffee and breakfast she'd been my rock through everything the trials the media Circus the long nights of putting together the pieces of our fractured families keep reading she said handing out the coffees I'm leaving you the house the company everything not because you deserve to inherit my mistakes but because

I trust you to build something better from the ruins and Ryan I looked up at him dad knew keep going Ryan said softly and Ryan my son who never knew he was mine forgive me I chose silence to protect protect you from Evelyn's anger but in doing so I denied you the truth about who you are Addie will help you understand she's stronger than I ever was the letter ended with a final Revelation coordinates to a safety deposit box in another bank one none of us knew about inside we'd found one last gift college funds

for both of us set up the day Ryan was born our father had never stopped planning for a future where the truth would finally come out so Jess said breaking the thoughtful silence what happens now I looked around the office at the desk that had started everything at the brother I never knew I had at the life I was rebuilding From the Ashes of so many Secrets now we stop letting the past Define us I said the company's being restructured half the shares are yours I told Ryan dad wanted us to build something together even

if he couldn't be here to see it and V Jess asked carefully she wrote to me from prison Ryan said I haven't opened it yet I touched the drawer where I kept my own unopen letter from Evelyn some truths Meed time some wounds Meed more than just answers to heal whatever's in those letters I said we'll face it together no more secrets as Morning Light filled the room I realized that's what Dad had tried to teach us all along the debt of the heart wasn't about revenge or Justice it was about the price we pay

for truth and the courage it takes to face it headon Ryan picked up the photo from the desk think he'd be proud of us yeah I said watching the sunrise paint everything in new colors I think he would I'm Hannah and I met John in college and we clicked instantly he was Charming funny and ambitious we got married right after graduation and started building our life together when our daughter Sophie was born I was over the moon I poured all my love and energy into raising her determined to give her the best start in life

I believed in setting boundaries and instilling discipline knowledge is power I'd always tell her study hard and you'll go far John on the other hand had a different parenting style he'd shower Sophie with gifts buy her sweets and let her get away with things I wouldn't come on Hannah he'd say let her be a kid it bothered me but I figured we balanced each other out as Sophie Grew Older it became clear she was a daddy's girl she'd run to Jon with her problems laugh at his jokes and light up when he came home from

work with me it was all eye rolls and yes Mom and that tone teenager is perfect I'd bite my tongue reminding myself that Sophie would understand when she was older she'd see that my my strict approach came from a place of love but even at 17 Sophie remained firmly in her father's Camp it stung but I consoled myself with the thought that I was doing right by her in the long run despite these small frustrations I considered myself fulfilled I had a successful career at a respected Clinic a husband who still made me laugh and

a daughter who despite our differences I adored life was good or so I thought everything changed on a crisp autumn day I was doing laundry a mundane task I'd done a thousand times before as I emptied Jon's coat Pockets my fingers brushed against a piece of paper I pulled it out expecting a grocery receipt or a dry cleaning ticket instead I found myself staring at a receipt from an upscale perfume store the perfume listed was an expensive brand I'd never wear too floral too sweet John knew I preferred subtler scents I stood there the washing

machine humming in the background as a thousand possibilities race through my mind was it a surprise gift but my birthday had passed and our anniversary was months away was it for his mother but she was allergic to most perfumes with shaking hands I took a picture of the receipt with my phone then carefully I placed it back in his pocket I needed time to think to process this information without jumping to conclusions that evening when John was in the shower I checked his cat again the receipt was gone I kept my Discovery to myself not

breathing a word to JN or Sophie but now that my eyes were open I couldn't stop noticing things it was like a fog had lifted revealing a landscape I didn't recognize John's late nights at work weren't new but now they felt different big project honey he'd say kissing me on the cheek as he left don't wait up i' nod and smile all the while wondering who he was really meeting his new haircut caught my attention too he'd always been particular about his appearance but this was different younger trendier when I complimented him he Shrugged it

off thought I'd try something new the weekend fishing trips were the worst every other Saturday he'd load up his gear and head out to meet his buddies fish are really biting lately he'd say with a grin I'd watch him drive away wondering if he even owned a fishing rod anymore before finding that receipt I hadn't connected these dots now they formed a picture I couldn't unsee the thought I'd been avoiding burst to the surface JN had a mistress I tried to shake it off this was JN my John the man who held my hand through

20 hours of Labor the guy who surprised me with flowers on random Tuesdays he wouldn't cheat but the doubt gwed at me I couldn't eat couldn't sleep I'd lie awake listening to Jon's steady breathing wondering if he was dreaming of her one sleepless night I found myself scrolling through Facebook a name caught my eye Mike Thompson we'd gone to high school together and I vaguely remembered he'd become a private investigator before I could talk myself out of it I sent him a message we met at a coffee shop across town the next day I took

a deep breath and Spilled everything the receipt Jon's behavior my suspicions Mike listened without interrupting his face neutral Mike agreed to take the case as I watched him leave I felt a mix of relief and Dread soon I'd have answers but did I really want them the next 3 weeks were the hardest of my life I went through the motions smiling at my patience helping Sophie with her schoolwork making small talk with JN over dinner but inside I was a mess every time my phone buzzed I'd jump thinking it was Mike with news every time

Jon came home late I'd search his face for of guilt every time Sophie mentioned her dad I'd wonder if she knew something I didn't you okay Mom Sophie asked one evening catching me staring blankly at the wall you seem off I plastered on a smile just tired sweetie lots of clients this week she didn't look convinced but she let it go I felt a Pang of guilt for lying to her but what could I say your dad might be cheating on me and I've hired someone to spy on him John caught up in whatever or

whoever was occupying his time didn't seem to notice anything a Miss part of me was relieved part of me was Furious that he could be so oblivious to my pain the call came on a Tuesday afternoon I was between clients when my phone buzzed Mike's name flashed on the screen and my heart leapt into my throat Hannah can we meet his voice was neutral giving nothing away we agreed to meet at the same cof shop in an hour the rest of my appointments were a blur I went through the motions smiling and nodding at my

clients while my mind raced Mike was already there when I arrived a thick manila envelope on the table in front of him my stomach dropped at the sight of it Hannah Mike pushed the envelope towards me it's all in here photos dates locations I'm sorry Hannah but your suspicions were right with shaking hands I opened the envelope the first photo hit me like a punch to the gut John my John with his arms around a younger woman they were laughing looking into each other's eyes with unmistakable affection who is she I managed to choke out

Alicia Benson Mike replied she's 28 works at jnk company she's the director's daughter I flipped through more photos John and Alicia at restaurants walking in the park boarding a yacht each image was a fresh wound they've been seeing each other for over a year Mike continued from what I've gathered it's serious they've talked about a future together I nodded numbly barely registering his words then a photo made me gasp it showed JN and Alicia at a cafe but they weren't alone sitting with them smiling and laughing was Sophie no I whispered it can't be Mike's

voice was gentle I'm sorry Hannah but Sophie knows about the affair she's met with them several times those weekends she said she was with friends she was with them on Alicia's yacht there's more John and Alicia have been buying Sophie expensive gifts designer clothes jewelry I think they're trying to buy her silence I don't remember the drive home thankfully the house was empty when I arrived I moved on autopilot packing a small suitcase with clothes and Essentials I couldn't stay here couldn't face John or Sophie I checked into a hotel across town my mind still

reeling once in my room I called my boss at the clinic and took two weeks off unpaid family emergency I turned off my phone and sank onto the bed the envelope seemed to mock me from the bedside table unable to help myself I opened it again sleep eluded me that night every time I closed my eyes I saw those damning photos Sophie Smile as she hugged Alicia Jon's arm around them both my anger which had started as a slow simmer began to boil over for years I'd been the understanding one The Peacemaker the one who

bent over backwards to keep everyone happy well I was done with that my eyes fell on my laptop without really thinking I opened it and logged into my bank account there it was Sophie's college fund I'd been squirreling away money for years determined to give her the best education possible it was my way of showing love even when she pushed me away now looking at that balance all I could think about was how Sophie had betrayed me how she'd lied to my face spent time with that woman accepted her gifts my daughter who I'd sacrificed

so much for had stabbed me in the back suddenly a memory surfaced years ago before Sophie was born I dreamed of opening my own cosmetology office but then life happened marriage a baby mortgage payments my dream got pushed aside I stared at at the account balance it was enough enough to start over to finally pursue my own dreams instead of everyone else's you know what I said out loud to the empty hotel room screw it this money isn't for Sophie anymore it's for me the words hung in the air both terrifying and exhilarating for the

first time in days I felt a glimmer of hope I had a future even if it wasn't the one I'd planned emotionally drained I finally drifted off to sleep my phone still turned off the next morning I woke to sunlight streaming through the curtains for a blissful moment I forgot everything then reality Came Crashing back with a deep breath I turned on my phone it immediately exploded with notifications missed calls from John and Sophie voicemails text messages asking where I was if I was okay their concern which once would have melted my heart now felt

like acid in my veins how dare they pretend to care now I didn't bother listening to the voicemails or reading the texts instead I got dressed packed my bag and checked out of the hotel it was time to face the music the drive home felt surreal part of me wanted to keep driving to disappear and start a new life somewhere else but I squashed that impulse I needed closure as I pulled into the driveway I saw Jon's car and Sophie's bike they were both home good I walked in my heels clicking on the hardwood floor

John and Sophie rushed out of the living room their faces a mix of relief and anxiety Hannah where have you been we've been so worried JN exclaimed moving to hug me Sophie chimed in her voice shrill with concern Mom are you okay why didn't you answer our calls I stepped back avoiding Jon's embrace a cold laugh escaped me stopping them both in their tracks without a word I reached into my bag and pulled out the folder I tossed it on the coffee table photos spilling out JN and Sophie stared at the images their faces draining

of color there they were in glossy 8x10s John with Alicia Sophie with them both the silence that followed my Revelation was deafening Jon was the first to recover his shock morphing into defensive anger Hannah it's not what you think he started his voice plating Alicia and I were just friends and Sophie she don't you dare drag Sophie into your lies I cut him off my voice ice cold Sophie jumped in her eyes wide with feigned innocence mom please I can explain I only met her a few times I didn't know I held up a hand

silencing them both save it I know everything the yacht trips the expensive gifts the dinners Every Lie every betrayal they exchanged a look and I saw the moment they realized their act wasn't working the mask Slipped Away revealing the strangers beneath Jon's face hardened all pretense of remorse Vanishing fine he said coldly you want the truth yes I'm with Alicia she's young beautiful and Rich she makes me feel alive in a way you haven't in years his words were like a slap to the face but I refused to Flinch instead I turned to Sophie waiting

for her contribution to this character assassination she didn't disappoint Alicia is amazing mom she said her voice dripping with disdain she's successful stylish fun not strict and boring like you I absorbed their words each one a fresh wound but I wouldn't give them the satisfaction of seeing me cry I see I said my voice steady well let me tell you both something John I want a divorce I'll have my lawyer contact you Jon's eyes widened but before he could speak I turned to Sophie and you young lady you can forget about me paying for your

college tuition if Alicia is so amazing maybe she can foot the bill Sophie's jaw dropped what you can't do that that's my money I've been counting on it I want to get into my dream school should have thought about that before you stabbed me in the back I replied unmoved by her crocodile tears mom please she sobbed her cool demeanor crumbling I'm sorry I didn't mean what I said please forgive me I need that money but her earlier words echoed in my mind strict boring worse than the other woman ignoring their protests I went upstairs

and packed the rest of my belongings as I came back down suitcase in hand Jon blocked my path Hannah let's talk about this rationally he said his tone businesslike the house our assets my lawyer will be in touch I interrupted pushing past him I'm done talking to you the next few weeks passed in a blur I found a small apartment and threw myself into the logistics of dismantling a 20-year marriage I hired a lawyer and requested a mediator determined to handle this divorce as cleanly as possible the last thing I wanted was a drawn out

messy Court battle Sophie called incessantly at first when I didn't pick up she resorted to texts then emails each message was a mix of apology and demand I read each one my heartbreaking and new every time but I couldn't bring myself to respond the wound was too fresh the Betrayal too deep as the days turned into weeks I found myself staring at my phone Sophie's number on the screen my finger would hover over the call button a war raging Inside Me part of me yearned to hear her voice to believe her apologies but then I'd

remember her cruel words her secret meetings with Jon and Alicia and I'd put the phone down days turned into weeks each meeting with JN was a test of endurance conducted in the sterile environment of our lawyers offices the man I once loved was now just another face across the conference table all business and cold deficiency one day as I settled into my usual chair the door opened and Sophie walked in behind Jon my heart clenched at the sight of her but her expression stopped any warm feelings cold she looked at me with a mixture of

condescension and Triumph that took my breath away hello mother she said her tone dripping with false sweetness I hope you don't mind me joining today before I could respond she continued I just wanted to let you know that I won't be needing your pathetic money after all Alicia has generously offered to pay for my education at any top college in the states she paused clearly savoring the moment oh and I'll be living with Dad and Alicia from now on we're going to be one big happy family I felt the eyes of our lawyers and the

mediator on me waiting for my reaction but I was too tired too drained to feel much of anything anymore I simply Shrugged if that's what you want Sophie I said my voice flat I hope you'll be happy something flickered in her eyes disappointment had she been hoping for a bigger reaction but it was gone in an instant replaced by that same smug look the rest of the meeting passed in a blur of legal jargon and Asset Division in the end Jon and I split everything down the middle the house would be sold with the proceeds

divided equally between us with my share from the house sale and the money I'd saved for Sophie's college fund I had enough to make a fresh start I found a small but cozy apartment and after much soul searching decided to take a leap of faith I quit my job at the clinic and threw myself into creating a business plan for my own cosmetology office it was terrifying and exhilarating in equal measure all those years of experience all the dreams I'd put on hold it was time to put them to use weeks of planning renovating and

nervous anticipation followed but finally Hannah's Beauty Haven opened its doors those first few months were a whirlwind of long hours social media marketing blitzes and the slow but steady growth of my client base in Quiet Moments usually late at night when the day's work was done I'd find myself scrolling through social media Sophie's posts would appear on my feed pictures of her in designer clothes lounging on Alicia's yacht always smiling always looking carefree and happy each image was a knife to my heart I'd wonder if she ever thought of me if she missed me at

all when her 18th birthday rolled around I sent her a message wishing her well same for her high school graduation both went unanswered A year had passed since the divorce and life had settled into a new Rhythm my cosmetology office once just a dream was now a thriving reality the steady stream of loyal clients from my clinic days combined with a growing number of new faces kept me busier than I'd ever been I'd even hired two assistants to help manage the workload on a sunny Tuesday afternoon as I was finishing up with a client my

phone buzzed it was my cousin Sarah Hannah you won't believe what I just saw she said her voice a mix of concern and disbelief I was at the Meadowbrook Supermarket you know the one on the other side of town and I swear I saw Sophie working at the checkout my heart skipped a beat Sophie are you sure positive she looked different thinner tired but it was definitely her I thanked Sarah and hung up my mind reeling Sophie working at a supermarket what about college what about Alicia's promise to fund her education that night after closing

the office I did something I hadn't done in months I looked up Sophie's social media what I found shocked me all her glamorous photos with JN and Alicia were gone there were no updates no College moving pictures nothing her once active profile was a digital ghost town for days I wrestled with what to do part of me wanted to rushed to the supermarket to demand answers but another part the part still nursing the wounds of betrayal held me back finally on my day off I couldn't take it anymore I drove to the Meadow Brook Supermarket

my heart pounding as I walked through the automatic doors and there she was Sophie my baby girl looking so different from The Confident young woman who'd sneered at me in the lawyer's office she was thin almost gaunt dark circles under her eyes as she mechanically scanned items at the checkout our eyes met and I saw a flash of something embarrassment shame before I could decipher it she looked away her cheeks flushing I approached her checkout my steps hesitant Sophie she glanced up then quickly backed down at the register what do you want her voice was

harsh defensive I'd like to talk maybe we could get coffee after your shift I I don't want to talk to you she snapped still not meeting my eyes please leave Sophie please I said leave she finally looked at me her eyes blazing with a mix of anger and something else was it fear stunned by her vehement I backed away other customers were starting to stare with a heavy heart I left the supermarket climbing into my car with shaking hands as I drove home my mind was a whirlwind of questions what had happened where were John

and Alicia why wasn't Sophie in college for days after I waited for a call a text anything but my phone remained stubbornly silent I thought about going back to the supermarket but Sophie's words rang in my ears I don't want to talk to you just as I was beginning to lose hope my phone rang an unknown number flashed on the screen with a mix of trepidation and curiosity I answered mom Sophie's voice small and uncertain came through the speaker can we meet please we agreed to meet at a small Cafe near my office as I

waited my mind raced with possibilities when Sophie walked in my breath caught she looked so different from the glowing confident girl in those yacht photos so much older than her years we sat in silence for a long moment the weight of unsaid words hanging between us finally Sophie spoke her voice barely above a whisper I'm so sorry Mom for everything and then like a damn breaking the story poured out of her at first living with JN and Alicia had been a dream designer clothes yacht trips Promises of a bright future but the honeymoon period didn't

last Alicia started making comments Sophie said her eyes fixed on her untouched coffee little digs about how much space I took up how expensive I was then she told Dad I couldn't live with them anymore that there was no money for college I gasped but your father surely he didn't agree Sophie's bitter laugh was answer enough he said I was an adult now that I needed to stand on my own two feet they kicked me out mom I had nowhere to go why didn't you call me I asked reaching for her hand across the table

she pulled away tears in her eyes I was so ashamed and then I realized this must be how you felt when we we betrayed you I couldn't face you after that my heart broke for her even as a small Petty part of me whispered good now she knows how it feels I'm sharing a crappy apartment with a coworker Sophie continued the supermarket job barely covers rent and food I feel so useless I wanted to wrap her in my arms to tell her everything would be okay but I knew it wasn't that simple so I said

gently I'm so sorry you're going through this but you're right you did betray me actions have consequences and this is something you need to work through we both cried then mourning the Lost year the broken trust the pain we'd caused each other as we parted something had shifted between us it wasn't forgiveness not yet but it was a start that night I tossed and turned Sophie's story playing on repeat in My Mind by morning I'd made a decision I called Sophie I have a proposition for you I said I need an administrator at my office

the pay is not great but it's better than the supermarket and maybe maybe we can start rebuilding from there there was a long pause then yes I'd like that thank you Mom it's been 6 months since that day Sophie works at my office now learning the business from the ground up she's saving for Community College determined to make it on her own Merit this time our relationship is a work in progress there are good days and bad days moments of connection and moments of tension the trust we once had is slowly painstakingly being rebuilt one

day at a time as I watch Sophie greet a client with a warm smile I feel a glimmer of hope we're not the same people we were before the Betrayal the divorce the year of Silence but maybe just maybe we can be something new something stronger I'm Sarah and it all started when I met Tom in college we were in different courses but we hit it off right away he was Charming funny and damn good-look we dated throughout college and by the time graduation rolled around we were head over heels in love we got hitched

right after graduation and I was on Cloud9 my parents Ellen and George were loaded they'd always given me everything I wanted and my wedding was no exception it was a fairy tale of fair white dress fancy venue The Works the first year of marriage was Bliss We Were Young in love and had the world at our feet Tom had landed a great job at a marketing firm and I was working as a teacher at a local elementary school life was good then about a year after we got married I found out I was pregnant I

was over the moon his reaction wasn't quite what I expected he smiled but it didn't didn't reach his eyes I brushed off his lukewarm response chalking it up to shock I was sure he'd come around once the news sank in N9 months later our daughter Lily was born she was perfect 10 tiny fingers 10 Tiny Toes and a set of lungs That Could Wake the Dead I was smitten Tom on the other hand seemed overwhelmed he'd hold Lily awkwardly like she was a ticking Time Bomb when she cried which was often he'd practically run from

the room I thought we'd have more time you know he said one night after Lily had finally fallen asleep to enjoy being married travel all that stuff I tried to reassure him we can still do all that Tom it'll just be a little different with Lily as the months went by Tom started staying late at work more and more often he'd come home after Lily was asleep citing big projects and demanding clients I wanted to believe him but a nagging doubt started to grow in the pit of my stomach Friday nights became guys night for

Tom he'd go out with his work buddies coming home in the wee hours of the morning wreaking of booze keep that kid quiet will you he' snap when Lily's cries woke him up some of us need to sleep three years flew by in a blur of diapers tantrums and Stolen Moments Of Joy Lily was now three a bundle of energy with her dad's green eyes and my stubborn chin I'd gone back to work and Lily had started kindergart Garden we'd fallen into a routine but it felt like Tom and I were just going through the

motions then came the day that shattered what was left of our marriage I've got a business trip next week Tom announced over dinner one night I'll be gone for 3 days I nodded used to his frequent trips by now the day after Tom left I got a frantic call from his mother Martha Sarah I'm at the hospital she said her voice shaky I had some chest pains could you let Tom know my heart raced of course Martha I'll call him right away but Tom wasn't answering his phone after trying for hours I started to worry

what if something had happened to him too in desperation I called his boss Mike business trip Mike sounded confused I didn't send Tom on any trip my world tilted on its axis if Tom wasn't on a business trip Tri where the hell was he when he waled through the door 3 Days Later whistling like he didn't have a care in the world I was ready how was your trip I asked my voice dripping with sarcasm your mom's in the hospital and your boss says he never sent you anywhere the color drained from tomk face Sarah

I can explain save it I spat just tell me the truth for once are you cheating on me the silence that followed was all the answer answer I needed her name's Amanda Tom finally mumbled it's been going on for a while now the divorce was ugly Tom fought me on everything the house the car even Lily's teddy bear but the worst was when he refused to pay child support I'm not paying for a kid I never wanted he snarled during one of our meetings something in me snapped fine I said my voice cold keep your

money but I want you to sign away your parental rights you clearly don't want to be a father so make it official to my shock Tom didn't even hesitate he signed the papers with a flourish and just like that he was out of our Lives the next two years were tough Tom's parents blessed them helped out with Lily and gave us money when they could but being a single mom was harder than I'd ever imagined then when Lily was five I met Jack he was a widower with a daughter Emma who was a year younger

than Lily we fonded over playground meetups and PTA meetings and before I knew it I was falling in love again we got married in a small ceremony with Lily and Emma as our flower girls watching Jack with the girls I felt hope blooming in my chest for the first time in years as time passed our little family grew closer Lily started calling Jack dad and Emma called me Mom it felt right like we were always meant to be together 3 years after we got married our son Max was born Jack doed on all three kids

equally never distinguishing between his and mine we were happy really and truly happy 20 years sometimes it feels like yesterday that Lily was a toddler tottering around our living room now at 25 she's a college graduate engaged and planning her own wedding where did the time go Lily's fiance is a great guy Jack and I both like him he's kind hardworking and he clearly adores our daughter when they announced engagement Jack opened a special account for Lily's wedding expenses and gave her full access when we told Lily she burst into tears and hugged us both

for weeks after that our house was a flurry of wedding magazines color swatches and excited phone calls Lily would burst through the door bubbling over with news about venues dresses and floral arrangements mom dad you won't believe what we found she'd exclaim spreading photos across our kitchen table isn't this centerpiece gorgeous Jack and I would nod and smile caught up in her enthusiasm it warmed my heart to see her so happy to be part of this exciting time in her life but then things started to change the visits became less frequent the phone calls shorter

at first I chocked it up to wedding stress planning a wedding is no small feat after all but as the weeks went by I couldn't shake the feeling that something was off then on a quiet Sunday afternoon Lily showed up unannounced the moment I saw her face I knew something was wrong her usual Bright Smile was gone replaced by a tense almost nervous expression Mom I need to talk to you and Jack she said stumbling over the name my heart dropped Jack not dad in all the years since Jack had come into our lives I'd

never heard Lily call him anything but dad of course sweetheart I said trying to keep my voice steady let me get Jack I found my husband in the garage tinkering with his latest project one look at my face and he was on his feet wiping his hands on a rag what's wrong he asked concern etching his features it's Lily I replied she wants to talk to us and Jack she called you jack I saw the hurt flash across his face before he schooled his expression into calm neutrality he nodded took my hand and together we

walked back into the house Lily was sitting at the kitchen table her hands clasped tightly in front of her Jack and I sat down across from her our hands still linked under the table the tension in the room was palpable thick enough to cut with a knife all right Lily Jack said his voice gentle despite the worry I could see in his eyes we're here what did you want to talk about Lily took a deep breath her eyes darting between Jack and me I met my biological father a couple of months ago ago I was

at Grandma Martha's and he showed up we talked for hours he's changed mom he wants to make things right I felt Jack stiffen beside me and what does this have to do with the wedding he asked his voice carefully neutral Lily's chin lifted a stubborn set to her jaw that I recognized all too well he asked to walk me down the aisle and I want him to the silence that followed was deafening I could practically hear the sound of Jack's heart breaking Lily I said gently sweetheart I know this is confusing but Jack has been

your dad since you were five Tom he abandoned you he signed away his rights he made a mistake Lily's voice Rose he's sorry now he wants to fix things Jack leaned forward his face a mask of hurt and confusion Lily I've raised you as my own for 20 years I've been there for every scraped knee every school play every heartbreak I thought I thought I was your dad you are Lily insisted then faltered I mean you're my stepdad and I love you but Tom is my real father it's my wedding and I want him to

walk me down the aisle I saw the moment Jack's heart shattered his face crumpled for a split second before he regained control Lily he said his voice thick with emotion I've always considered you my daughter not my stepdaughter my daughter well I'm not Lily shouted jumping to her feet you're my stepfather not my real dad this is my wedding and I'll decide who walks me down the aisle the front door slammed and Emma Jack's biological daughter rushed into the kitchen what's going on why is everyone yelling close behind her was Max our son looking bewildered

Mom Dad Lily I quickly filled them in watching their faces change from confusion to anger how could you do this to Dad Emma demanded glaring at Lily after everything he's done for you Max nodded his young face Twisted with hurt yeah Lily dad's always treated us all the same how can you say he's not your real dad Lily looked around wildly her eyes filling with tears you don't understand none of you understand with that she bolted from the house the door slamming behind her we all stood there in stunned silence Jack's face was Ashen his

eyes fixed on the spot where Lily had been standing Emma moved to his side wrapping an arm around him Max joined them and I watched as my family closed ranks around Jack I moved to Jack's other side taking his hand he looked at me his eyes swimming with unshed tears I don't understand he whispered where did I go wrong my heart broke for him for all of us you didn't go wrong Jackie said firmly you've been the best father any of these kids could ask for Lily I don't know what's gotten into her as we

stood there our little family huddled together in the kitchen I couldn't help but wonder how had things gone so wrong and more importantly how were we going to fix this the days following Lily's bombshell announcement were tense Jack and I kept expecting her to call to apologize to come to her senses but the call never came instead my phone started buzzing with notifications friends and family members sending me links asking if I'd seen Lily's latest posts with a heavy heart I opened her social media page there they were photos of Lily with Tom both grinning

at the camera so happy to reconnect with my real dad the caption read each word Felt Like a Knife twisting in my gut when I showed Jack his face hardened that's it he said his voice low and controlled if she doesn't consider me her father anymore I'm not paying for her wedding I'm blocking her access to the wedding account she's made her choice I didn't argue how could I when he looked so broken a few days later the other shoe dropped Lily burst into our house like a hurricane her face red with Fury what the

hell she screamed not even bothering with a greeting why can't I access the wedding account how am I supposed to pay the vend ERS the venue the Caterers I'm sure your real father can help you out Jack replied his voice cold in a way I'd never heard before since you've chosen him it seems only right that he should foot the bill Lily gaped at him then turned to me Mom you can't let him do this make him give me access to the account again I shook my head slowly Lily this is Jack's decision and frankly

I agree with him what she shrieked how can you take his side I'm your daughter and Jack is my husband I replied firmly he's been more of a father to you than Tom ever was you can't expect to hurt him like this and still have him pay for your wedding Lily's face contorted with rage fine she spat if that's how it's going to be then you need to make a choice Mom it's me or him your daughter or your husband choose she stood there chest heaving clearly expecting me to Cave to choose her My Flesh

and Blood over Jack but in that moment looking at her tantrum throwing face I didn't recognize my daughter at all I'm not choosing anyone Lily I said quietly I love you and I love Jack but I agree with his decision you're an adult now if you want Tom to be your real father then you need to deal with the consequences of that choice Lily's face crumpled for a moment I saw a flicker of the little girl she used to to be the one who would run to Jack with skinin knees and bad dreams then her

expression hardened again I hate you she sobed I hate both of you and with that she stormed out slamming the door so hard the windows rattled a few days after Lily's dramatic exit my phone buzzed again another social media notification with a sense of dread I opened it there was Lily beaming next to Tom the caption read thanks to to my amazing dad for funding my dream wedding it's going to be the event of the century P.S Sarah Jack and kids don't bother showing up you're not invited I showed Jack who just shook his head

sadly where did Tom suddenly get all this money he wondered aloud I Shrugged who knows maybe he won the lottery either way it's not our problem anymore we tried to put it out of our minds to focus on our life and our other kids but fate it seemed had other plans a week later there was a knock at our door I opened it to find Martha and George Tom's parents looking worried and frazzled Sarah dear Martha said ringing her hands we need your help I ushered them in calling for Jack once we were all settled

in the living room George spoke up we got a call from the bank he explained they're saying we've missed a loan payment but we never took out a loan the next day I found myself at the bank with Martha and George piecing together a disturbing puzzle Tom it turned out had taken out a massive loan using forged documents he'd made his parents unwitting co-signers I'm so sorry the bank manager said looking genuinely distressed but unless the loan is repaid we'll have to start proceedings against Mr and Mrs Johnson Martha burst into tears George looked shell

shocked we figure this out I assured them even as my mind raced how could Tom do this to his own parents back at home I filled Jack in on everything he listened his face growing Grimmer by the second we need to call the police he said finally Toms committed fraud his parents shouldn't suffer for his crimes I nodded my heart heavy despite everything I never wanted it to come to this the next few days were a whirlwind police statements Bank meetings more tears from Martha and George and then finally the news we'd been dreading and

hoping for in equal measure Tom had been arrested as the details emerged the full scope of Tom's deception became clear he'd taken out the loan not just for Lily's wedding but to impress a new girlfriend he'd been living large on borrowed money and forged signatures the funds have been frozen the detective informed us we'll be seizing them as evidence my thoughts immediately went to Lily all that money she'd been bragging about the lavish wedding she'd been planning it was all gone fruits of a poison tree that evening as Jack and I sat on the porch

trying to process everything that had happened my phone rang it was Lily mom she sobbed her voice cracking everything's ruined the money's gone the wedding's off what am I going to do I closed my eyes feeling a complex mix of emotions sympathy frustration a tiny bit of vindication but mostly I felt tired so very tired I don't know Lily I said softly I really don't know a few days after the phone call Lily showed up at our doorstep her eyes were red rimmed her hair disheveled she looked nothing like the radiant bride to be she'd

been just weeks ago Mom Dad she said her voice small I noticed she was calling Jack dad again again I need your help we invited her in sitting around the kitchen table where we'd had so many family discussions before Jack's face was a mask of calm but I could see the turmoil in his eyes the wedding's off unless we can find the money Lily explained her words tumbling out I know I messed up I know I hurt you but please can you help me can you give me the money for the wedding I glanced at

Jack his jaw was set but I could see the conflict in his eyes part of him wanted to sweep in and fix everything like he always had but we both knew we couldn't do that this time Lily I said gently we can't just give you the money not after everything that's happened but Lily started to protest but Jack cut her off we can't forgive you that quickly he said his voice firm but not unkind actions have consequences Lily you made your choice and now you have to deal with the Fallout Lily's face crumpled you don't

understand she sobbed Ben is furious he says I'm unstable that I create drama he's threatening to call off the engagement if we can't have the wedding we planned my heart achd for her despite everything she was still my little girl I wanted to wrap her in my arms and make everything better but I knew we couldn't sweetheart I said reaching out to take her hand I'm so sorry you're going through this but this is a problem you created and it's one you need to solve self we love you jack added his voice thick with emotion

but we can't bail you out of this it wouldn't be right and it wouldn't help you in the long run Lily looked between us realization Dawning in her eyes we weren't going to Cave we weren't going to fix this for her fine she spat yanking her hand away from mine I'll figure it out myself I don't need you either of you she stormed out leaving Jack and me sitting in stuned silence weeks passed we heard through the grape vine that Lily and Ben had gotten married at the city hall with just a handful of guests

present we weren't invited the night we heard about the wedding I found Jack sitting on the porch staring into the distance I feel like I failed her he said quietly as I sat down next to him I took his hand squeezing it gently you didn't fail her Jack we raised her to be strong independent and responsible sometimes that means letting her face the consequences of her actions but what if we pushed her away for good he asked his voice breaking I leaned my head on his shoulder every person in life faces situations where they have

to make a choice I said softly sometimes those choices turn out to be wrong that's what happened with Lily but she's strong she'll learn from this and hopefully she'll find her way back to us we sat there in silence watching the sunet our family had been through a storm and I knew we weren't out of the woods yet but as I sat there with Jack I felt a glimmer of hope we'd weathered storms before we'd weather this one too 3 months after Lily's Hasty City Hall wedding I bumped into an old friend at the grocery

store as we caught up she let slip something that made my heart skip a beat I heard Lily and Ben are having trouble she said lowering her voice someone told me they're talking about divorce I thanked her my mind mind reeling as soon as I got home I filled Jack in we debated for hours before finally deciding to reach out to Lily to our surprise she answered on the first ring mom her voice was small reminding me of when she was little and had a nightmare sweetheart we heard is everything okay there was a long

pause then a choked SOB no Mom nothing's okay Jack and I invited her and B over then next evening they sat across from us at the kitchen table looking worn and defeated we can't stop fighting Lily admitted her eyes downcast Ben resents me for the wedding Fiasco for alienating all of you his parents are Furious that they weren't at the wedding Ben nodded looking miserable I love Lily but I don't know if love is enough anymore I took a deep breath choosing my words carefully marriage isn't easy I started God knows Jack and I have

had our rough patches but divorce that's a big step are you sure you've tried everything Lily burst into tears I'm so sorry she sobbed for everything dad Jack I'm so sorry for what I said for how I treated you Mom I'm sorry for trying to make you choose I've ruined everything Jack reached across the table taking Lily's hand you haven't ruined everything sweetheart you made mistakes yes but we all do have you considered seeing a family therapist to our relief they both nodded we spent the rest of the evening talking really talking for the first

time in months there were more tears but also laughter and by the time Lily and Ben left I felt a glimmer of hope over the next few months Lily and Ben threw themselves into therapy Jack and I even joined them for a session at the therapist's request it was hard dredging up old hurts and misunderstandings but it was also healing slow slowly but surely we saw changes Lily and Ben started looking at each other the way they used to family dinners became a regular thing again filled with conversation and laughter instead of tension one evening

as Jack and I sat on the porch watching the sunset Lily joined us she snuggled up next to Jack like she used to when she was little Dad she said softly I'm so sorry for everything you've always been my real dad and I was an idiot to ever say otherwise Jack hugged her tight his eyes Misty I love you kiddo always have always will as for Tom we heard through Martha and George that he'd received a suspended sentence for the fraud last we knew he'd left town hopefully to start fresh somewhere else life isn't perfect

Lily and Ben still have their struggles and our family is still healing but as I sit here watching Jack and Lily chatting and laughing I feel hopeful we've weathered this storm and I believe we've come out stronger for it I don't know what the future holds but I do know this family isn't about blood or legal documents it's about love forgiveness and sticking together even when things get tough and by that definition we are most definitely a family I remember those days like they were yesterday mom dad and me Megan the perfect little family we

weren't rich or famous just ordinary folks living our best life dad worked as an accountant always buried in numbers but he'd light up when he got home mom was a teacher spreading knowledge and kindness wherever she went we'd spend weekends exploring the country piling into our beat up station wagon and hitting the road dad would blast his favorite oldies and Mom would sing along terribly offkey but not caring one bit I'd sit in the back rolling my eyes but secretly loving every minute of it those road trips were the best we'd stop at dingy diners

ordering greasy burgers and sharing a giant milkshake mom would always Steal My Fries claiming I'm just testing them for poison sweetie when we weren't traveling we'd hit up the local mall I'd drag them from store to store trying on ridiculous outfits and begging for the latest toys mom was the voice of reason but Dad was a softy he'd slipped me a few extra bucks when Mom wasn't looking Whispering our little secret megie Friday nights were Pizza nights we'd order in sprawl out on the living room floor and watch cheesy movies dad would try to explain

the plots mom would shush him and I'd stuff my face with pepperoni not caring about anything but the moment I was 11 when Mom started feeling tired all the time at first we didn't think much of it teaching is exhausting after all but then came the doctor visits the worried Whispers The Hush phone calls I didn't understand what was happening nobody told me anything but I could feel the change in the air the laughter became less frequent the road trip stopped and pizza nights were replaced with quiet tense dinners one night I overheard dad on

the phone his voice cracking as he spoke the treatments aren't working Mike I don't know what we're going to do that's when I knew something was very wrong with Mom and our perfect little world was about to shatter I wish I could go back to those Happy Days freeze time and stay in that bubble of blissful ignorance forever but life doesn't work that way the storm was coming and there was nothing I could do to stop it for now I close my eyes and try to remember the good times the smell of mom's perfume the

sound of Dad's laughter the taste of Friday night pizza those memories are all I have left of the life I once knew the life I desperately wish I could return to it happened on a Tuesday I remember because it was pizza night but there was no pizza no laughter no Mom just silence and the horrible beeping of Hospital machines Megan sweetie dad said his voice cracking mom she's gone just like that my world collapsed mom my rock my best friend was gone I couldn't breathe couldn't think I just stood there numb as Dad hugged me

his tears soaking my hair the next few weeks were a blur of black clothes hushed voices and casseroles I couldn't bring myself to eat I kept expecting mom to walk through the door to tell me it was all a bad dream but she never did then about 6 months after we lost mom something changed dad started going out more I thought he was getting better until I saw her she was tall blonde and nothing like mom her name was Karen and she had a smile that didn't quite reach her eyes Megan this is Karen dad

said looking nervous we've been seeing each other I couldn't believe it mom wasn't even cold in her grave and he was already replacing her Karen bent down her face inches from mine Hi Megan I've heard so much about you when Dad wasn't looking Karen's smile dropped her eyes turned cold calculating in that moment I knew this woman was trouble over the next few weeks Karen was everywhere she'd come over for dinner watch TV with us even try to help me with homework but the moment dad's back was turned the mask would slip listen kid she

hissed one day when we were alone I'm here to stay don't get any ideas about messing this up for me I tried to tell Dad I really did but he just shook his head Megan I know this is hard for you but Karen's a good person you're just jealous maybe we should get you to talk to someone jealous I couldn't believe it my own father thought I was making this up before I knew it I was sitting in a therapist's office being told I had adjustment issues and difficulty with change Karen had somehow convinced everyone

dad our relatives even the neighbors that I was troubled poor Megan I'd overhear her saying on the phone she's having such a hard time there are mental problems we're getting her the help she needs then came the bombshell a year and a half after mom died dad dropped the news Megan Karen and I we getting married we thought it'd be best if you spent the summer at Camp give you some time to adjust but I knew the truth they were shipping me off so I wouldn't ruin their perfect day with my sour face as Karen

put it I left for camp with a heavy heart knowing that when I returned everything would be different my home wouldn't be mine anymore my family was changing and there was nothing I could do about it I returned from camp with a knot in my stomach the house looked the same from the outside but as soon as I stepped through the door I knew everything had changed welcome home Megan Karen said her smile not reaching her eyes we need to talk about room arrangements with the baby coming we'll need to make some changes my head

spun baby what baby Dad's face lift up that's right you don't know Karen's pregnant you're going to be a big sister Karen led me upstairs chattering about Nursery colors and baby names we stopped at my room or what used to be my room we've started converting this into the nursery car and said pushing open the door my heart sank my posters were gone replaced by pastel wallpaper my desk had vanished a crib standing in its place where's my stuff I managed to choke out Karen waved dismissively oh we moved you to the guest room it's

Cozier anyway the guest room was barely bigger than a closet my things were piled haphazardly on the bed some boxes still sealed this is temporary right I asked looking at dad he wouldn't meet my eyes well megie with the new baby I got the message I was being pushed out replaced the next few months were a blur of doctor's appointments baby showers and me trying to make myself as small as possible Karen's belly grew and with it her control over our lives then one crisp fall morning my little brother was born despite everything when I

held him for the first time I felt a surge of love for a moment I thought maybe things would get better but Karen had other plans careful Megan she'd say snatching him away you might drop him or he's sleeping now maybe you can see him later there was always an excuse always a reason why I couldn't spend time with my brother dad was too busy with work and the new baby to notice ears passed I threw myself into school counting down the days until I could leave for college my brother grew into a sweet curious

kid but Karen made sure our interactions were limited finally my senior year arrived d one night I overheard Karen and dad arguing she needs to learn responsibility Karen insisted a job right out of high school would do her good dad's voice was firm no Sarah wanted her to go to college we set aside money for it Megan's going I'd never been so grateful for my dad standing up for me when my acceptance letter came I cried with relief I was getting out I was going to start my own life away from Karen's manipulations on moveing

day dad helped me pack the car Karen and my brother stayed home I'm proud of you megie Dad said hugging me goodbye your mom would be too as I drove away watching my childhood home disappear in the rearview mirror I felt a mix of sadness and hope I was leaving behind the only home I'd known and the little brother I never really got to know but I was also driving towards Freedom towards a future where I could be myself without and Shadow looming over me college was like a breath of fresh air after years of

Suffocation I threw myself into my studies determined to make something of myself advertising became my passion a world where creativity met strategy and I could finally express myself freely but even as I reveled in my newfound Independence there was always a nagging ache in my heart my little brother barely six when I left was growing up without me during rare visits home I'd catch glimpses of the amazing kid he was becoming Megan look what I drew he'd exclaim showing me his latest Masterpiece I'd ruffle his hair cherishing these brief moments it's awesome buddy you're quite

the artist Karen would inevitably interrupt whisking him away for some urgent task or another the distance between us grew with each passing year graduation day arrived a Bittersweet Triumph as I stood in my cap and gown scanning the crowd I realized dad and Karen weren't there later a tur text arrived congratulations on graduating dad Karen it stung but I refused to let it dampen my spirits I had a future to build thanks to my internships and portfolio I landed a job at a hip advertising agency in the city Grandma mom's mom and my guardian angel

helped me secure a tiny but cozy apartment your mother would be so proud she said pressing a check into my hand this is for rent she always wanted you to have a good start life settled into a comfortable Rhythm work was challenging but rewarding I made friends went on dates and slowly began to heal from the wounds of my past for 3 years I lived in relative peace with only occasional awkward holiday visits to break the calm then out of the blue my phone rang dad's name flashed on the screen Megan it's Dad I have

some news we've sold the house and bought a new place bigger more modern I was hoping well would you help us move it might be a good chance for us to reconnect I was speechless after years of distance this sudden Olive Branch felt surreal Karen would be happy to see you too he added though I doubted that and your brother Megan he's 12 now he asks about you all the time I closed my eyes weighing my options part of me wanted to refuse to protect myself from more hurt but another part the part that still

missed my family that longed for reconciliation won out okay I said finally I'll come great dad's relief was palpable I'll text you the address see you this weekend as I packed a bag for the weekend my emotions swirled hope mingled with anxiety excitement with Dread whatever happened this visit would change everything I just didn't know if it would be for better or worse I pulled up to the address my jaw dropping at the sight the house was enormous all Sleek lines and modern architecture it looked nothing like the Cozy home I grew up in taking

a deep breath I walked to the front door and rang the bell dad opened it a hesitant smile on his face megie you made it hi Dad I said stepping inside Karen appeared behind him her smile as plastic as ever Megan how nice of you to come she said her tone suggesting anything but I looked around expecting to see my brother where's oh he's staying with my parents for the weekend Karen cut in smoothly we thought it would be easier to move without him underfoot the look in her eyes told me everything this was deliberate

she'd made sure my brother wouldn't be here denying me even this small chance to reconnect with him swallowing my disappointment and anger I forced a smile so where do you want me to start for the next few hours I threw myself into the work I scrubbed floors arranged furniture and hung curtains it was easier than trying to make conversation with Dad or enduring Karen's false pleasantries as I was sorting through some boxes in what would be the study I came across a pile of framed photos my heart stopped as I recognized one particular frame it

was a portrait of mom the one that used to hang in my childhood bedroom her smile beamed at me from beneath a layer of dust clutching the photo I walked into the living room where Dad and Karen were discussing paint colors Dad I said my voice shaking slightly why is mom's picture in a pile of junk Dad's face fell a mix of guilt and sadness Crossing his features he opened his mouth to speak but Karen beat him to it oh that old thing she said dismissively we decided those photos don't really fit with the new

Decor they're a bit Superfluous don't you think Superfluous the word hit me like a slap my mother's memory reduced to an outdated decoration Superfluous I repeated my voice dangerously low this is my mother your wife I added looking at Dad Dad at least had the decency to look ashamed Megan we didn't mean but I was already moving Gathering up every photo of Mom I could find I found her old jewelry box a few of her books without a word I carried them out to my car ignoring Karen's protests and Dad's weak attempts to explain as

I placed the last item in my trunk I felt a storm of emotions threatening to overwhelm me anger at Karen's callousness disappointment in Dad's spinelessness and a deep aching sadness for the mother I'd lost and the family that seemed Beyond repair I slammed the trunk shut the sound echoing in the quiet street for a moment I considered getting in the car and driving away leaving this mess behind once and for all but something stopped me maybe it was the memory of mom her voice in my head telling me to be strong maybe it was the

thought of my little brother who I still hadn't seen or maybe it was just sheer stubbornness refusing to let Karen win whatever it was I found myself walking back into the house Karen was nowhere to be seen probably hiding to avoid confrontation dad stood in the hallway looking lost so I went back to cleaning trying not to think about Dad's betrayal as I was about to leave dad caught my arm Megan wait there's something else I turned eyebrow raised what now he shifted uncomfortably we're having a housewarming party in a few days I we would

really appreciate your help before I could respond Karen swooped in her voice dripping with false sweetness oh yes Megan we could really use your assistance perhaps you could handle the catering I'll take care of the cleaning invitations and overall organization I opened my mouth to refuse but dad jumped in please megie all our relatives and friends will be there we can't manage without you his pleading eyes wore me down despite everything a small part of me still want wanted to make him happy fine I sigh I'll help with the food I'll even pay for it

myself Karen's smile widened wonderful we're thinking of an Italian theme you know to chrisen the new kitchen I nodded an idea forming actually I know the best Italian restaurant I'll order from there quality guaranteed o Karen's eyes narrowed slightly what's the name of this restaurant bellan replied watching her carefully she nodded looking satisfied sounds perfect we'll leave it in your capable hands then as I drove home I couldn't shake the feeling that something was off Karen's sudden agreeableness was suspicious but I pushed the thought aside focusing on the task at hand over the next few

days I threw myself into planning the perfect menu I called my friend Maria owner of bellut Megan it's been been too long she answered cheerfully hey Maria I need a favor my dad's having a housewarming party and I'm in charge of food think you can help me out for you anything what are you thinking we spent an hour crafting the perfect Italian spread antipasti platters handmade pastas tiu for dessert the works I spared no expense wanting to prove I could handle this responsibility after finalizing the order I felt a mix of anticipation and nervousness despite

everything a small part of me hoped this party might be a turning point maybe just maybe we could start to heal our fractured family the next week dragged by slowly I kept myself busy with work but my mind often wandered to the upcoming party I checked and double checked the order making sure everything was perfect the day before the housewarming party my phone rang it was Maria from bellut hey Megan I'm a bit confused your stepmother called yesterday and asked to move the food delivery to today did the party date change my heart sank what

no it's supposed to be tomorrow oh Maria sounded worried well I wanted to double check with you before making any changes I thanked her my mind racing after hanging up I immediately called Karen my suspicions on high alert hi Karen just wanted to confirm the party details for tomorrow I said keeping my voice neutral oh yes everything's set for tomorrow at 7:00 p.m. she replied smoothly we're looking forward to it I thanked her and ended the call my hands shaking with anger and disbelief it was clear now Karen had tried to change the delivery date

behind my back she wanted me to miss the party entirely taking a deep breath I called Maria back hey it's me again I need to cancel the order I said my voice tight cancel but Megan are you sure it's a lot of food and it's all paid for I know keep the payment consider it a gift use the food for the restaurant if you can after hanging up I sat in stunned silence the Betrayal stung but a part of me wasn't surprised this was classic Karen always finding new ways to push me out the same

evening curiosity got the better of me I opened my social media and saw my cousin was live streaming from the party there it was the housewarming in full swing happening right now a day early I watched a mix of hurt and anger Building inside me as Karen showed off the new house she pred for the camera pointing out design features and accepting compliments from guests suddenly a voice off camera asked where's Megan I thought she'd be here Karen's face changed a look of false concern replacing her smile oh you know Megan she's always been a

bit unsociable some mental health issues poor dear she said she couldn't make it I felt like I'd been punched in the gut mental health issues unsociable the lies flowed so easily from her lips Karen quickly changed the subject steering the conversation back to the house now who's ready for some amazing Italian food it should be here any minute the guests cheered and Karen beamed at the camera half an hour passed and I could see the guests starting to look Restless Karen's smile became strained as she kept assuring everyone the food would arrive any minute now

I couldn't tear my eyes away from the live stream Karen's perfectly crafted facade was crumbling before my eyes her smile had become a Grimace as she dialed the restaurant's number the speaker phone amplifying every word for the gathered guests hello bellut this is Karen where is our food order the response was clear and devastating I'm sorry Mom but that order was canceled earlier today by Megan there won't be any delivery Karen's face contorted with rage what that little John she shrieked turning to my father call Megan right now dad looking flustered pulled out his phone

I watched heart pounding as he dialed my number when I answered his voice boomed through the speaker phone Megan how could you cancel the food order you've ruined everything taking a deep breath I replied calmly dad why did you change the date of the housewarming why wasn't I invited the room fell silent Dad's face paled as he stammered I we Karen said murmurs rippled through the crowd guests exchanged meaningful glances eyeing Karen and dad with suspicion suddenly Karen snatched the phone from dad's hand you ungrateful brat she screeched after everything we've done for you you're

trying to sabotage us aren't you I let her rant for a moment before speaking my voice steady and clear I think everyone can see now who really has mental health issues in this family and it's not me Karen's hysterical shouting filled the room but I could see the damage was done guests were backing away some already heading for the door I'm done being your scapegoat Karen I said firmly and Dad I'm done watching you choose her over your own daughter goodbye I ended the call and closed the live stream my hands shaking but my resolve

strong it was over the lies the manipulation all of it laid bare for everyone to see in the days that followed I ignored the barrage of calls and messages from Dad and other family members I needed time to process to heal a week later dad showed up at my apartment he looked Haggard his eyes red rimmed Megan I'm so sorry he began I've been blind I let Karen control everything and I lost sight of what really matters please give me a chance to make things right I wanted to slam the door in his face but

something in his expression stopped me it's not that simple dad you abandoned me you forgot about me I know he said his voice breaking but I want to change I promise I'll do better please megie slowly cautiously we began to rebuild our relationship dad started calling regularly and we met for coffee every week he even brought my little brother along sometimes away from Karen's watchful eye as for Karen I heard through the grap Vine that she' become something of a pariah among the family her lies exposed she retreated into a shell of bitterness months passed

and life settled into a new Rhythm I threw myself into my career climbing the ranks at the advertising agency my creativity flourished fueled by the emotional turmoil I'd endured I don't know what the future holds for my family the wounds are deep and healing takes time but for the first time in years I feel hopeful I'm living life on my terms pursuing my passions and slowly carefully allowing love back into my heart as I look out at the city lights from my apartment Window I can almost hear mom's voice you're stronger than you know megie

she used to say and you know what she was right my name is Kate and I grew up in a small house that always smelled of fresh bread dad inherited the family bakery from his parents and I loved helping him need dough after school mom was different she was a real Tor always dressed in sharp suits and heels bringing in more money than Dad ever did Kate come set the table mom called one evening I was 12 gangly and awkward more interested in Reading than anything else coming I shouted back dog earing my page as

I laid out the plates I heard them start up again another slow month John mom's voice dripped with disdain when are you going to get your act together dad's reply was soft Sarah please not in front of Kate oh who cares Mom snapped she should know what a loser her father is I gripped the edge of the table willing myself not to cry this was a common scene in our house Mom belittling dad dad trying to keep the peace I knew Mom was angry about more than just money she felt trapped in a life she

never wanted Kate mom barked where's my wine I scrambled to pour her a glass my hands shaking as I set it down some splashed onto the tablecloth mom's eyes flashed you useless girl can't you do anything right Dad intervened it's just a little wine Sarah no harm done mom glared at him you're too soft on her no wonder she's growing up to be just as pathetic as you I fled to my room Burying my face in my pillow I loved dad fiercely but I couldn't understand why he put up with Mom's treatment as for me

I'd learn to make myself scarce to be as quiet and unobtrusive as possible the next morning I woke to find the house eerily silent no smell of baking bread no click of Mom's heels I crept downstairs to find Dad sitting at the kitchen table his f Ashen where's Mom I asked though I already knew the answer deep in my gut dad wordlessly handed me a note in Mom's elegant handwriting it read John I can't do this anymore I'm leaving with Richard he can give me the life I deserve not this small town nonsense Kate don't

bother trying to find me you're just dead weight I don't need John you're a loser and you've turned our daughter into one two goodbye and good riddance I stared at the paper feeling like I'd been punched in the stomach mom was gone she'd abandoned us calling dad a loser and me useless in her Parting Shot the next few months were a blur of legal proceedings and emotional turmoil dad filed for divorce and petitioned to have Mom's parental rights terminated I remember sitting in the cold Courthouse my sweaty hand clutching dads as we waited for Mom

to show up she never did I out as the adults talked catching Snippets like abandonment and unfit parent when it was over dad squeezed my hand it's done Katie he said softly the divorce is final and your mother's parental rights have been terminated it's just you and me now I nodded feeling a mix of relief and sadness life got harder after that Dad threw himself into work spending long hours at the bakery despite being only 12 I took on most of the housework I'd come home from school do my homework then start on dinner and

laundry three years pass in this routine then just after my 15th birthday everything changed again Dad came home one day his face a mix of shock and grief Uncle Pete died he said collapsing into a kitchen chair oh Dad I'm so sorry I said hugging him tight he hugged me back back then pulled away his eyes wide Katie you won't believe this he left me everything almost $300,000 I'm his only living relative I don't know what to do with it all but Dad figured it out quick he invested a chunk of the money into the

bakery upgrading equipment and expanding the menu within months our little Bakery was the Talk of the Town dad hired more staff extended the hours and before we knew it he was opening a second location across town by the time I turned 16 dad owned three thriving bakeries our financial worries were a thing of the past I quit my after school job and focused on my studies we even took our first real vacation a two week trip to Europe as the years went by Mom became a distant memory dad dated occasionally but never seemed interested in

remarrying I didn't push it we were happy as we were High School graduation came and went in a blur of cap tossing and teary hugs I'd worked my butt off and it paid off I was headed to State University to study Finance the morning I was set to leave dad handed me a small box what's this I asked opening it to find a key dad grinned your graduation gift it's an apartment near campus no more worrying about dorm life or rent I stared at him speechless Dad I can't this is too much he waved off

my protests you earned it Katie now go make me proud College flew by I threw myself into my studies determined to make the most of the opportunity dad had given me when I wasn't in class or studying I was interning at local Financial firms by the time I graduated I had a job lined up as a junior financial analyst my first day at work I stood in front of my apartment mirror straightening my laser you've got this Kate I told my reflection make Dad proud the job was challenging but I loved it every bonus or

raise I got I invested rather than spent dad's voice echoed in my head money makes money Katie be smart with it years passed by the time I hit 32 those smart Investments had paid off I own two more apartments in addition to the one I lived in all bringing in steady rental Income Life was good then came the phone call that changed everything Katie dad's voice sounded strained can you come over I need to talk to you about something I found him sitting at his kitchen table looking older than I'd ever seen him what is

it Dad I asked fear clenching my stomach he took a deep breath it's cancer honey stage four pancreas at it the world tilted on its axis no I whispered there must be some mistake but there wasn't the next year was a hellish roller coaster of treatments remissions and relapses I spent every free moment at the hospital or at Dad's house making his favorite cheese soup even when he was too nause as to eat it one crisp bottom day I arrived at Dad's house to find him sitting in his favorite armchair a serious look on his

face we need to talk Katie he said patting the seat next to him the doctors gave me six months tops no I said shaking my head furiously they're wrong we'll get a second opinion we Katie he interrupted gently it's okay I've made my peace with it I'm selling the bakeries everything's going to you you'll be set for life I pulled back wiping my eyes eyes I don't want your money dad I want you he smiled sadly I know sweetheart but this is how I can take care of you even when I'm gone the next s

months were precious and painful we talked more than we ever had about everything and nothing I memorized every line on his face the sound of his laugh the smell of sugar and flour that clung to him even now and then on a quiet Wednesday morning he was gone the funeral was a blur afterward I sat in Dad's empty house clutching his favorite apron the lawyer had already been by with the paperwork true to his word dad had left me everything I used the money from the bakeries to buy two more Apartments it felt right somehow

building something lasting just like Dad had done a year after Dad's passing I was just starting to find my footing again work kept me busy and managing my rental properties gave me a sense of purpose I'd settled into a new normal or so I thought then came the call that turned everything upside down Kate it's it's your mother I'm back in town I'd like to see you if you're willing my mind raced part of me wanted to hang up to protect myself from the woman who'd abandoned me but another part the part that still held

on to the little girl I once was couldn't help but be curious okay I heard myself say let's meet at Rosy's Cafe tomorrow at noon the next day I arrived at the cafe early my stomach in knots as the Clock Struck 12 I saw her walk in she looked older of course but still elegant but she wasn't alone a young girl maybe 17 trailed behind her mom spotted me and hurried over heate darling you look wonderful and this is Lily your sister I felt like I'd been slapped my what we sat down and Mom launched

into her story how her lover Richard had left her shortly after Lily was born how they'd struggled to make ends meet how she' decided to come back to her hometown to start over I heard you have a rental property she continued her voice hopeful I was wondering if maybe she trailed off but her meaning was clear I looked at Lily who was staring at her hands clearly uncomfortable I thought about Dad about how he'd always taught me to be kind even when it was hard I thought about the scared little girl I used to be

wishing for her mom to come back okay I heard myself say I have a unit that's just become available you can stay there mom's face lit up okay thank you we'll pay rent of course I held up a hand no rent just utilities for now as we hammered out the details I watched Lily she looked so young so out of place I remembered being her age feeling lost and alone after Mom left so Lily I said trying to sound friendly you're what a junior in high school she nodded meeting my eyes for the first time

yeah it's weird starting at a new school for senior year I felt a Pang of sympathy I bet listen if you need help with anything school stuff or just someone to talk to I'm here okay Lily gave me a small smile thanks that that means a lot as we left the cafe mom hugged me again you're an angel Kate I know I have a lot to make up for but I hope we can start fresh I nodded not trusting myself to speak that night night as I drifted off to sleep I couldn't shake the feeling

that my life was about to get a lot more complicated but for better or worse my mother was back in my life and I had a sister only time would tell what that would mean for all of us the months following mom and Lily's return were strange mom quickly found work as a realtor slipping back into her old life as if she'd never left Lily enrolled in the local high school for her senior year I kept my Unsure how to navigate this new family Dynamic occasionally mom would call or stop by Kate darling thank you

again for the apartment she' gush her smile wide and seemingly sincere you've been such a blessing i' nod uncomfortable with her effusive gratitude it's fine Mom I'm glad I could help Lily and I developed a cautious friendship I'd help her with math homework or listen to her College plans it was nice in a way having a sister but there was always a barrier the weight of the years we missed then came Lily's graduation I attended the ceremony watching from the back as she accepted her diploma mom beamed with pride and for a moment I allowed

myself to imagine what life might have been like if she'd never left the very next day mom showed up at my door unannounced her face was flushed eyes blazing we need to talk she snapped pushing past me into the living room I followed confused what's going on she Whirled on me don't play dumb I know about the apartments Kate all four of them my stomach dropped how had she found out what about them I asked keeping my voice level you've been holding out on us she shrieked living the High Life while Lily and I scraped

by I felt my temper Rising excuse me you're living rentree in one of those apartments that's not enough she spat half of those properties should be mine I'm your mother I couldn't help it I laughed it was so absurd you can't be serious you lost any claim to my property when you abandoned us remember no parental rights no child support she changed Tac then her voice suddenly pleading Kate sweet think about Lily she needs money for college if you just sold one apartment absolutely not I cut her off Lily's education is not my responsibility how

can you be so selfish mom wailed after everything I've done for you that was the last straw everything you've done for me I repeated incredulously you mean abandoning me calling me useless in your goodbye note or wait do you mean living rentree in my apartment for months mom recoiled as if I'd slapped her for a moment she just stared at me her mouth opening and closing like a fish out of water then without another word she turned and stormed out slamming the door behind her I stood there shaking with anger and hurt how dare she

after everything how dare she try to guilt me like this I sank on to the couch my head in my hands I'd known deep down that letting mom back into my life was a risk but I'd hoped well I wasn't sure what I'd hoped for as the adrenaline faded I felt a deep aching sadness this woman who should have been my protector my support was nothing but a stranger who wanted to use me and Lily good what was I going to do about Lily two weeks after mom's blow up I was grabbing coffee at my

usual spot when I noticed the Barista giving me odd looks as I waited for my order I overheard a snippet of conversation from a nearby table can you believe it charging her own mother rent when she's got all those apartments I froze surely they couldn't be talking about me but they were over the next few days I caught more Whispers more sidelong glances it seemed mom had been busy spreading her Twisted version of events to any anyone who would listen then came the Facebook post I saw it during my lunch break and nearly choked on

my sandwich my daughter Kate has four Apartments she rents out making a fortune but refuses to help pay for her sister's college education she's forcing me to pay exorbitant rent when I can barely make ends meet I'm heartbroken that my own child could be so greedy and selfish the comments poured in each one a knife to my heart how could she do that to her own mother what a horrible person I always knew there was something off about her friends relatives even old classmates I hadn't spoken to in years all of them jumping on the

bandwagon shaming me for my supposed greed not one of them seemed to remember or care that this woman had abandoned me as a child just when I thought things couldn't get worse my boss called me into his office Kate wa he said his face grave we need to talk about this situation with your mother it's starting to affect the company's reputation I felt the blood drain from my face sir I can explain he held up a hand I'm not asking for details but I need you to resolve this quietly and quickly we can't have this

kind of drama associated with our firm understand I nodded numbly not trusting myself to speak back at my desk I found an email notification about unpaid utilities for Mom's apartment great just great with shaking hands I dialed mom's number what do you want she snapped by way of greeting I took a deep breath trying to keep my voice steady mom there are unpaid utility bills for your apartment we agreed you'd cover those remember she scoffed oh please you're rolling in money from all those apartments you can afford to pay a few bills that's not the

point I said my patients wearing thin we had an agreement an agreement she interrupted like the agreement that you'd help your family fat lot of good that did us I sat there phone in hand feeling like the world was crumbling around me how had I let things get this far I'd tried to do the right thing to be kind and generous and this was how I was was repaid with a heavy heart I made an appointment with a lawyer M Stevens the lawyer said reviewing my case you have every right to evict your mother she

has no lease pays no rent and you've given her ample notice about the utility bills I nodded feeling a mix of relief and Dread what do I need to do he handed me a document this is an official eviction notice serve it to her and if she doesn't comply we can take legal action armed with the paper I drove to Mom's apartment my apartment really my hands shook as I knocked on the door mom answered her face twisting with displeasure when she saw me oh it's you have you finally come to your senses about selling

an apartment for Lily's College Lily's picked out her school tuition's due next month my shock turned to anger are you serious right now after everything you've done you're still making demands don't be so dramatic mom scoffed it's the least you can do for family that was it the last straw I thrust the eviction notice at her here you have 30 days to vacate the premises mom stared at the paper her face going pale then without warning she exploded you are great F little brute she screamed her voice echoing through the apartment after everything I've done

for you I stood my ground everything you've done you mean abandoning me spreading lies about me she lunged forward her hand raised I flinched but the blow never came instead she grabbed the front of my shirt spitting insults in my face you're nothing you hear me nothing but a selfish heartless I managed to break free fumbling for my phone that's it I'm calling the police mom's eyes widened but she didn't back down she continued her TI raade her words becoming more vicious with each passing second when the police arrived I was shaking tears streaming down

my face I showed them the eviction notice explained to the situation as calmly as I could nem one officer said to Mom I suggest you calm down and discuss this civy with your daughter mom sneered civy with her she's trying to throw us out on the street the other officer turned to me M Stevens legally this is a civil matter we can't forcibly remove her without a court order I'd suggest trying to work this out between yourselves or taking it to court if necessary I nodded feeling defeated as the police left Mom's triumphant smirk made

my blood boil you won't do it she taunted you don't have the guts to take your own mother to court I stared at her this woman who had given birth to me but had never truly been a mother in that moment I felt something inside me Harden watch me I said my voice low and steady before she could respond I turned and walked away as I reached my car I heard the slam of the apartment door behind me as I drove home I thought about what lay ahead a court battle more drama more pain but

also maybe a chance to finally break free from the toxic hold my mother had over me the day of the court hearing arrived and I felt like I might throw up as I walked into the courtroom I saw mom and Lily sitting on the opposite side mom's eyes were red and puffy while Lily looked like she wanted to disappear the proceedings began and Mom put on quite a show she wept dramatically her voice breaking as she addressed the judge your honor she sobbed my daughter has become so cold-hearted she's trying to throw her own mother

and sister out on the streets after everything I've done for her I clenched my fists willing myself to stay calm then my lawyer stood up and I felt a wave of relief wash over me your honor he began his voice steady and confident I'd like to present some evidence that paints a very different picture of the situation he proceeded to lay out the facts mom's abandonment when I was 12 the termination of her parental rights her failure to pay any child support he showed the judge the documentation of the rent-free arrangement and the unpaid utility

bills but he wasn't done furthermore your honor we have evidence that Mrs Stevens is not in fact in the dire Financial Straits she claims mom's head snapped up her eyes wide my lawyer continued Mrs Stevens owns an apartment in another city left to her by her former partner she currently rents out this property for a substantial monthly income the courtroom fell silent the judge turned to Mom his expression Stern is this true Mrs Stevens mom's face had gone pale she opened and closed her mouth a few times before finally Whispering yes your honor the judge's

voice was cold as he delivered his verdict this court grants the eviction furthermore Mrs Stevens will pay back rent for the month she occupied the apartment rent free Mrs Stevens your actions are nothing short of unconscionable this case is closed the gavl came down with a bang that seemed to echo through my entire body it was over we'd won as we left the courtroom I caught sight of Lily she looked lost confused and my heart ached for her this wasn't her fault I walked over to her ignoring mom's glare Lily I said softly I'm sorry

it came to this if you need help real help you can still reach out to me okay she nodded Tears In Her Eyes I'm sorry Kate I didn't know I I gave her a sad smile and walked away feeling like a weight had been lifted from my shoulders in the weeks that followed mom and Lily moved out of my apartment I heard through the grape vine that they'd gone to live in Mom's other property I didn't try to contact them and they didn't reach out to me as I stood in the now Empty Apartment memories

of the past few months flashed through my mind the hope I'd felt when Mom came back the pain of her betrayal the stress of the court case but Underneath It All I felt free