Chapter 1 - THE GATES CLOSE
The gates had almost closed when Ryan shoved his hand between them.
“Claire!”
The motor stopped.
For one second, I thought he might force his way inside.
Then Emma began crying against my shoulder.
Ryan looked at her. His hand dropped. The gates finished closing.
Behind me, Margaret whispered, “You own this?”
“Yes.”
The mansion stood silent behind winter-bare trees. I had bought it through an LLC three years earlier after a client offered it below market value. Ryan knew I had made an investment. He never asked what it was.
Oliver tugged my coat. “Mommy, is this a castle?”
“Not quite.”
“Does it have snacks?”
“Yes.”
“Then castle.”
Margaret laughed, then winced and touched her ribs.
“Mom.”
“I’m fine.”
“You’re not.”
I called her doctor, a private nurse, and my attorney. Margaret caught my wrist.
“No police.”
“I didn’t say police.”
“You were going to.”
“Yes.”
“Please. Not tonight.”
The gate intercom rang. Ryan and Vivian stood outside.
“Claire, open the gate.”
“No.”
“We need to talk.”
“Tomorrow.”
Vivian leaned toward the camera. “You cannot shut off a home where people live.”
“You can restore services in your own names.”
“You’re vindictive.”
I looked at Margaret’s bruised cheek. “Good night, Vivian.”
I ended the call.
Margaret whispered, “Cornered people do stupid things.”
Headlights swept across the windows.
A black sedan stopped at the gate. A woman stepped out.
Ryan’s estranged sister, Natalie.
“Claire? Don’t let Vivian know I’m here.”
“Why?”
Natalie swallowed.
“Because I know where your mother’s bruises came from.”
May you like
Behind me, Margaret dropped her glass.
