She stared at me.
“You know, you’re not nearly as sweet as Michael says you are.”
I considered that.
“Did he tell you I was sweet?”
“He said you’d do anything for family.”
I nodded.
“That sounds more like him.”
Vanessa looked toward the staircase.
“I don’t understand why you won’t let us stay until we’re stable.”
“I am willing to work out a reasonable period for you to find somewhere else. I’m not willing to turn temporary help into permanent control over my house.”
She folded her arms.
“I think you’re punishing me.”
“You’re entitled to think that.”
She looked surprised.
I continued.
“But I was considering this sale before you arrived. Yesterday simply made me realize how little my wishes were being considered.”
I opened my handbag and took out a copy of Gabriella’s market analysis.
“Michael and I will discuss the arrangements tonight. I’d like you there.”
Vanessa glanced at the folder.
“Are you going to give us any money from the sale?”
“No.”
Her face tightened.
“Not even to help Noah?”
“I’m happy to give Noah birthday presents, visit him, and help in ways I choose. But I’m not promising proceeds from my home to fund your household.”
She turned away.
“Unbelievable.”
I went upstairs.
In my bedroom, I opened the closet and found the empty wardrobe boxes Vanessa had brought inside that morning.
They were stacked beside my dresser.
She hadn’t moved my belongings.
