Chapter 2: The Color of Old Ash
Luca's face went the color of old ash.
"What do you mean the house is yours?" His voice cracked on the last word.
Attorney Rachel Vance walked straight past him like he wasn't there.
She handed me a second envelope.
"The transfer of Sterling Tower's majority shares has been filed this morning.
Everything is in order, Mrs.
Vance."
Chloe grabbed Luca's arm.
"She's bluffing.
Call your lawyer."
Luca was already reaching for his phone.
Then he stopped.
Because he recognized the firm's letterhead.
Franklin & Meyers had handled his company's incorporation.
He knew exactly what their documents looked like.
And he knew they didn't bluff.
"Luca." My voice was quiet.
"Those tax forms you had me sign three years ago.
Do you remember what they actually were?"
He didn't answer.
"I didn't either.
Not until Rachel explained them to me today."
Chloe looked between us.
"What is she talking about?"
I watched Luca's jaw tighten.
He knew.
Fiona tugged my sleeve.
"Mommy, why is Daddy scared?"
I crouched down and held both my children close.
When I looked up, one of the security officers was already placing a notice on the front door.
Chloe read it first.
Her face collapsed.
"You can't do this," she whispered.
"Actually," Rachel said calmly, "she already has."
Luca took one step toward me.
"Jessi, wait—"
Then his phone rang.
He looked at the screen and went completely still.
It was his business partner.
---
May you like
What those "tax forms" actually said — and what Luca's partner knew — will leave you speechless.
Click the link below to read the full story.
