Chapter 6 - Terms and Conditions
Savannah did not plan to punish anyone.
She planned to establish boundaries.
She drafted three letters.
The first informed Nolan that his final rent payment would be made at the end of the month. After that, he would be responsible for his own housing.
The second explained that Savannah would no longer pay her parents’ optional expenses. She would cover one remaining mortgage shortage, but subscriptions, vacations, luxury purchases, and personal debts would become their responsibility.
The third concerned the Mercedes. Charles could continue using it under a written agreement, provided he covered fuel, maintenance, and insurance.
Savannah planned to give them the letters after the anniversary party.
She wanted the celebration to remain peaceful.
Then Nolan entered her office without an appointment.
Her assistant tried to stop him, but he pushed past the desk.
“I need twenty thousand dollars,” he announced.
Savannah stared at him. “For what?”
“A business opportunity.”
“What kind?”
“A lifestyle brand.”
“No.”
Nolan laughed as if she were joking.
“I am serious,” Savannah said.
His expression hardened. “You funded two businesses before.”
“And both failed.”
“Because you interfered.”
“I paid your debts.”
“You have plenty of money.”
“That does not make it yours.”
Nolan leaned across her desk. “Mom and Dad said you would help.”
Savannah felt something cold settle in her chest.
“They do not control my money.”
“You have always been jealous of me.”
Savannah almost laughed.
“Jealous?”
“They love me without needing me to succeed.”
The cruelty of the sentence stunned her because it was true.
Nolan walked out before she could respond.
That night, Elaine called and accused Savannah of humiliating her brother.
“He came to you because he trusts you,” Elaine said.
“He came because he wanted money.”
“You should be grateful he includes you.”
Savannah looked at the three letters on her table.
May you like
The Mercedes agreement suddenly felt too generous.
She tore it in half.
