Chapter 3: Justice Arrives
The detectives introduced themselves and asked everyone to remain seated.
Michael immediately stood.
"This is a misunderstanding."
One detective calmly replied,
"Then you'll have every opportunity to explain."
The forensic accountant opened a laptop and projected dozens of financial records onto the television.
Every transfer.
Every withdrawal.
Every purchase.
Every dollar traced directly to Michael and Jessica.
Neither of them could deny it.
Then my attorney spoke.
"Mrs. Anderson never authorized these transactions."
He placed another folder on the table.
"We've also preserved all text messages, computer files, deleted documents, and backups from Mr. Michael Anderson's laptop."
Michael looked at Clare.
"You did this?"
Tears filled her eyes.
"I protected Grandma because nobody else would."
Jessica buried her face in her hands.
"I never wanted it to go this far..."
My attorney interrupted.
"You planned this before she even sold her house."
Silence.
The detectives asked Michael and Jessica to accompany them for questioning.
As they walked toward the door, Michael turned back.
"Mom... please don't do this."
For the first time all evening, my voice became firm.
"I didn't do this."
"You did."
The front door closed behind them.
The house became strangely quiet.
Then my youngest grandson walked over and wrapped his arms around my waist.
"Grandma..."
"Are you leaving too?"
I knelt beside him and smiled through my tears.
May you like
"No."
"I'm finally choosing where I belong."
