Chapter 3: The Signature That Changed Everything
“Chloe,” Vanessa said, her voice dangerously soft.
“Go upstairs.””
Chloe didn't move.
“Mom, you told me Dad signed the paperwork.””
“I said go upstairs.””
“But you said everything was legal!””
Dad placed both hands on the kitchen island.
“Chloe, look at me.””
She hesitated, then turned toward him.
“Did your mother tell you the money came from my account?””
Chloe swallowed.
“She said it was family money.””
“What does that mean?””
“She said there was money set aside for the family, and that you agreed to use it for the house.””
Dad's face tightened.
“And you believed her?””
Chloe's eyes filled with tears.
“Yes.””
“Did you sign any documents?””
“I signed the closing papers for the property. Mom said she was giving me a house as an early inheritance.””
I stared at her.
“An inheritance?””
Chloe looked at me.
“I didn't know it was yours.””
“Why would you think Mom's money was yours?””
“Because she said—”
“Chloe,” Vanessa snapped.
“Stop talking.””
But Chloe was no longer looking at her mother.
May you like
She was looking at the paper on the counter, at the signature Dad said wasn't his, and at the man who had spent years making excuses for her behavior.
“I thought it was
