Chapter 2: The Deed on the Counter
Part 2 ⬇️
I stood in the hallway, the bank statements still in my hand, listening to Melissa laugh with her guests in the next room.
She was telling them the house had been "a gift from Derek."
I heard her say it clearly.
"We've done so much to make this place beautiful.
It was practically falling apart when we got here."
The guests murmured in admiration.
My mother was in the kitchen, alone, washing dishes.
I walked in quietly and placed my hand over hers.
"Mom.
When did Derek put his name on anything in this house?"
She went still.
"He...
he said it was just paperwork.
To make things easier while you were away."
My chest tightened.
"What paperwork, Mom?"
She wouldn't look at me.
Then I heard Melissa's voice from the hallway, sharp and sudden.
"Why is she in here bothering you?
The glasses need refilling."
She stopped when she saw my face.
For the first time all evening, her smile faltered.
"You should join the guests," she said carefully.
"This isn't really the time for a family reunion."
I looked at her for a long moment.
Then I reached into my bag and set one document on the counter between us.
The deed to the house.
With my name on it.
Melissa's eyes dropped to the paper.
The color drained from her face.
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What happened the moment those dinner guests saw that document — and what Derek did next — will leave you speechless.
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