Chapter 8 - the ultimatum
Vivian entered the room.
“You should give me the file.”
“No.”
“You don't know what you're holding.”
“I know enough.”
Vivian's voice softened.
“Your father destroyed this family.”
“My father tried to protect me.”
“He lied to you.”
“So did you.”
Vivian looked away.
Then she said something Hannah had never expected.
“Your mother asked me to.”
Hannah froze.
“What?”
“She asked me to keep you away from the truth.”
“Why?”
“Because she was afraid.”
“Of whom?”
Vivian stared at her.
“Your father.”
Hannah shook her head.
“I don't believe you.”
“You shouldn't.”
Vivian walked toward the door.
“That's what makes this so difficult.”
She stopped.
“Tomorrow morning, you will leave this house.”
Hannah laughed bitterly.
“And if I don't?”
Vivian looked back.
“Then you'll learn why your father was afraid of me.”
After Vivian left, Hannah called Samuel.
“She knows about the clause.”
Samuel became silent.
“How?”
“She wants me out tomorrow.”
“Then do not leave.”
“I won't.”
“Good.”
Hannah hesitated.
“Samuel, what happened to my mother?”
Another silence.
Then:
“She is alive.”
Hannah closed her eyes.
“Where?”
“I cannot tell you.”
“Why?”
“Because she made me promise.”
Hannah's voice broke.
“Does she know I'm looking for her?”
“Yes.”
“And does she know Dad is dead?”
May you like
Samuel whispered:
“She knew before you did.”
