Chapter 1 - The Empty Shell
Eleanor stood in the center of the vast, echoing living room, her expensive silk robe rustling against her ankles.
The velvet sofa was gone.
The original oil paintings were gone.
Even the heavy crystal chandelier I had bought with my first major research bonus had been safely packed away by the movers.
All that remained was bare hardwood, exposed wiring, and the bitter draft coming through the floor-to-ceiling windows.
"What is the meaning of this?!" Eleanor shrieked, her voice bouncing violently off the blank white walls.
"You took everything, Sarah!"
"You stripped my son's home like a thief in the night!"
I stood near the front door, wearing my simple trench coat, holding my small leather handbag.
"I didn't take your son's home, Eleanor," I replied, my voice steady, smooth, and entirely free of anger.
"I took my home."
"Every piece of furniture, every rug, and every appliance in this place was purchased with my personal debit card."
"Since I am no longer part of this 'real family,' I am taking my property with me."
Arthur stepped out of the master bedroom, his eyes bloodshot and his hair disheveled.
He held the white envelope I had left on the floor.
His hands were trembling so badly the paper rattled.
"Sarah..." Arthur choked out, his voice cracking.
"Please... tell me this is a mistake."
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"Read it to your mother, Arthur," I said quietly.
"Read her the lease agreement."
