Ruth unfolded the letter because my fingers were shaking too badly.
Helen had written it two weeks before she died.
Ruth read aloud.
“My sweet Clara, if you are hearing this one day, it means your father has been hurt by someone close to you, or by you yourself. I pray that day never comes.”
Clara’s face went pale.
“Your father is not weak. He is gentle. Do not confuse the two. He gives because he loves, not because he cannot see.”
The room became still.
“I placed the house in trust not to punish you, but to protect you from your worst moments. Grief, pride, fear, and love for the wrong person can make even a good heart reckless.”
Clara looked at Victor.
He laughed.
It was the worst thing he could have done.
“Touching,” he said. “But meaningless.”
Ruth lifted her phone.
“Not meaningless. The bank froze the transfer. The sale is void. The car transfer is invalid. And the forged signatures are now evidence.”
