Chapter 5 - The Christmas Invitation
In early December, Emma’s mother called.
Her voice was soft, almost affectionate.
“We don’t want to fight anymore.”
Emma said nothing.
“We’re having the whole family for Christmas. Your father misses you. Chloe misses you.”
“I doubt that.”
“Please come home.”
The word home hurt more than Emma expected.
Her mother continued.
“We should begin again. No business arguments. No lawyers. Just family.”
Emma knew it was a trap.
The investigators had warned her that Robert and Chloe were becoming desperate. Their loan applications had stalled. Victor was demanding money. The bank’s fraud team was quietly tracing every account involved.
Martin wanted Emma to avoid the gathering.
The police wanted more time to collect evidence.
Emma wanted the truth to happen where the lies had started.
“I’ll come,” she said.
After the call, Emma contacted Evelyn.
“I need a favor.”
On Christmas morning, Evelyn arrived at the Carter house before the other guests. Emma’s mother welcomed her because she believed Evelyn was still loyal to the family.
Evelyn quietly checked the old office.
The lock had been broken.
Inside, she found Emma’s cabinet open and nearly empty.
She photographed everything.
Then she noticed a small printer beneath the desk. A sheet of paper remained trapped behind the tray.
It contained repeated attempts to copy Emma’s signature.
Evelyn placed the page inside her handbag.
By noon, the house was filled with relatives.
Emma arrived carrying no gifts.
Chloe greeted her with a hug for the benefit of the room.
“I knew you would come to your senses.”
“I came for the truth.”
Chloe’s smile flickered.
Robert raised his champagne glass.
“To family loyalty.”
Emma looked around at the people who had already been told she was selfish, unstable, and determined to ruin Chloe’s future.
Nobody asked for her side.
May you like
Lunch began.
Then Robert placed the transfer agreement on the table.
