Chapter 14: The Ledger Balanced
The wire transfer hit on day twenty-eight. Incoming Transfer: $93,000.00.
I sat at my kitchen table, staring at the screen. The money was routed directly into a new, irrevocable trust. Janet had no access. Robert had no access. Even I required Owen’s dual signature to move a dime. It was locked down like Fort Knox.
Anna walked into the kitchen, holding a sketchbook. She looked over my shoulder at the laptop screen. “Is that it?” she asked softly. “That’s it,” I said. “Your college fund. Fully restored. Plus interest.” Anna sat down next to me. She was quiet for a long time. She traced the edge of her sketchbook with her thumb. “Mom?” “Yes, baby.” “Do you feel bad for them? Grandma and Grandpa?” I closed the laptop and turned to look at my daughter. “I feel bad that they didn't know how to love you the way you deserved to be loved,” I said honestly. “But I don't feel bad for protecting you. That is my job. I am your mother, Anna. I will burn down the whole world before I let anyone take what is yours.” Anna smiled. It was a small, quiet smile, but it reached her eyes. She leaned over and hugged me tight. “Thank you, Mom.”
