Chapter 2: The Letter No One Expected
The following morning, Brenda assumed Marcus would apologize.
Instead, a courier arrived.
Inside the envelope was a formal notice prepared by the family's attorney.
Because Brenda had refused to leave after being asked multiple times, the document officially revoked her permission to stay in the house and instructed her to vacate immediately.
Rachel stared at the letter.
"He actually hired a lawyer."
Brenda's face reddened.
"This is Maya's doing."
Marcus walked into the room carrying two cups of tea.
"No."
"It's mine."
"You taught me that being family doesn't excuse disrespect."
"I'm finally listening."
For a long moment, no one spoke.
Brenda looked around the beautiful home.
The guest room.
The kitchen.
The backyard where Lily loved chasing butterflies.
She realized she was losing access to all of it.
Not because of Maya.
Because of her own choices.
By noon, the suitcases were loaded into Rachel's SUV.
Before leaving, Brenda turned toward Maya.
"I still think you've changed my son."
Marcus answered before Maya could.
"No."
"She reminded me who I wanted to be."
May you like
The front door closed behind them.
The house finally felt peaceful.
