An inspection might uncover repairs.
And although the house was entirely mine, I needed to handle Michael and Vanessa’s occupancy properly.
“We shouldn’t schedule buyers to walk through their living space without a workable arrangement,” Gabriella said. “Let’s settle that first.”
I nodded.
Vanessa stepped forward.
“Thank you. Finally, someone understands that we live here.”
Gabriella looked at her.
“Living here matters for access and occupancy arrangements. It doesn’t give you authority over whether Helen lists her property.”
Vanessa’s mouth tightened.
“She’s sixty-eight. This house is too much for her to manage.”
“That may be one reason she’d prefer to sell,” Gabriella replied.
“You don’t understand. She doesn’t need all the proceeds.”
I set down my coffee.
“Excuse me?”
Vanessa glanced at Michael, who had just entered the kitchen.
“We have a child. Michael lost his job. Surely it makes sense to help us get established before buying some luxury retirement apartment.”
I stared at her.
Yesterday, she’d declared my home hers.
Today, she was already planning how to spend the proceeds.
“Vanessa, what do you believe I’m supposed to give you?”
She hesitated.
“That’s a discussion for the family.”
“We’re discussing it now.”
Michael looked uncomfortable.
“Mom, nobody’s asking for your money.”
Vanessa turned toward him.
“Michael.”
He looked at her.
She waited.
Then she said, “You told me your parents always planned to leave you the house.”
