Chapter 12 - Aaron’s Call
I called Aaron from Helen’s office.
He sounded nervous.
“Jennifer borrowed money from our dad in September,” he said. “She told him Stuart would repay it as soon as his share of the house came through.”
“There is no share.”
“That’s what I told her. She said your husband left an agreement.”
I looked at Helen.
“How much?”
“Forty thousand.”
I had known Jennifer wanted to renovate their kitchen. I hadn’t known she had borrowed against an inheritance Stuart did not have.
“Why are you telling me?” I asked.
“Dad’s retired. He gave her money he needs back. Yesterday she told him you were losing your memory and the sale had been delayed. I think she’s going to ask him for more.”
Aaron sent Helen copies of the messages. In one, Jennifer promised repayment “when the house closes.” In another, written weeks before Thanksgiving, she said Stuart was “working on his mother.”
I read that one twice.
Stuart had wanted the house sold before he threw the platter. Jennifer’s plan had been underway before either of them sat at my table.
I asked Helen what Aaron’s messages changed.
“They help establish the timeline. You still decide how far you want to pursue this.”
“I want the box and forged documents addressed. I don’t want Aaron’s father pulled into a fight he didn’t start.”
Helen nodded.
That night, Stuart called.
“Aaron talked to you.”
“Yes.”
“I didn’t know about the loan.”
“Did you know Jennifer told people your father left you a share of this house?”
“No. Mom, I swear.”
“You knew I didn’t want to sell. You kept pressing anyway.”
“I thought there was time to change your mind.”
I looked at the remaining boxes.
“There was time to talk to me. You chose to frighten me instead.”
He let that sit.
“What happens Friday?” he asked.
May you like
I had not told him the closing date.
Before I could answer, he said, “Jennifer knows. She’s driving to your house now.”
