I returned home for Thanksgiving, eager to embrace the holiday spirit. The house stood silent—save for Victor, my husband’s stepfather, seated in a rocking chair

Appointments canceled. Disparaging comments made when they thought he couldn’t hear. This is all a setup, Brady finally sputtered, jabbing a finger toward me.

She manipulated a dying man. The doorbell rang before I could respond. Perfect timing.

Patricia stood on the doorstep, notary Thomas beside her. Am I interrupting? She asked with professional coolness. Not at all, I replied.

The family has just returned and was reviewing Victor’s final message. Excellent. Then I can proceed with the official notification.

Patricia placed her briefcase on the dining table and removed several documents. As executor of Victor Harmon’s estate, I’m here to inform you of the provisions of his final will and testament. Brady straightened, composing himself.

A smug smile began to form on his lips. Fine. Let’s get to the point.

Patricia adjusted her glasses. The will is quite straightforward. Victor Harmon has left the entirety of his estate to Jade Mitchell, with provisions for substantial donations to several elder abuse prevention organizations.

The stunned silence that followed was broken by Elaine’s shrill voice. That’s impossible. We’re his family.

The will explicitly cites abandonment and neglect as reasons for disinheritance, Patricia continued calmly. It has been properly witnessed, notarized, and filed with the court. Mr. Harmon was examined by two separate physicians who certified his mental competence at the time of signing.

Brady’s smugness evaporated. This is fraud. We’ll contest it.

You’re welcome to try, Patricia replied, unfazed. However, given the extensive documentation of neglect, the video testimony and witness statements, I would advise against it. You’d only be spending money you don’t have.

What do you mean, money we don’t have? Elaine demanded. Patricia exchanged a glance with me before continuing. The properties you currently occupy, including your primary residence, belong to the Harmon Family Trust, which is now under Jade’s control as trustee.

Furthermore, the investment accounts you’ve been drawing from have been frozen pending audit for potential financial abuse. Brady’s face drained of all color. That’s… that’s not possible.

The house is mine. Dad promised. Victor promised nothing.

I interjected. You assumed. There’s a difference.

The implications were sinking in. Brady had spent their savings on the cruise, counting on his inheritance to cover their mounting debts. The house they lived in wasn’t his to sell or borrow against.

What about our college funds? Melissa asked in a small voice. Grandpa set those up for us. Brady couldn’t meet his sister’s eyes.

Patricia answered gently. Victor provided funds to your father for that purpose several years ago. However, those accounts were never established…