Amber’s face turned red.
“That trip meant the world to Steven.”
“And now you want a second chance?” Jay didn’t raise his voice, which somehow made it sting more. “That fund was built for a future—not a vacation. Clara and Martin added to it themselves, year after year.”
He turned to Steven. “If he’d shown real drive, we’d support him. But he skips classes, lies about schoolwork, and lives on TikTok. His grades are terrible, and you keep making excuses. You’re not helping. You’re holding him back.”
No one defended Amber. Not even Steven.
“This money isn’t a reward for existing,” Jay said. “It was for a child who dreamed big and worked hard. If Steven wants to go to college, he can apply for aid. Or get a job.”
He stared Amber down. “And you owe your brother and his wife an apology. You mocked their grief. You insulted their struggle. And I’ll be rethinking my will.”
Amber’s mouth tightened. She looked around, waiting for support. No one moved.
Then she muttered under her breath, “It’s not like anyone’s using the damn money.”
Something inside me snapped.
I stood.
“You’re right,” I said. “No one’s using it. Because it’s Robert’s. And what you just said? That erased him.”
She blinked. Shocked I’d spoken up.
“That money isn’t sitting there for someone else to claim. It’s a part of him. Of us. Every dollar came from birthdays, bonuses, coins we could’ve spent on better things. But we didn’t. Because we believed in his future.”
My voice trembled, but I kept going.
“If we’re lucky, maybe one day it’ll help his sibling. But for now? It stays. Untouched.”
Amber didn’t respond. She got up, grabbed her purse, and walked out. The front door closed quietly.
“And me?” Steven said. “Did she just forget I exist? Typical.”
“Don’t worry, honey,” I said. “Uncle Martin and Grandpa will get you home.”
“Just enjoy your dessert,” Jay said. “Chocolate cake and lemon tart tonight. Your mom needs time to think about her behavior.”
Martin reached for my hand, holding it tightly.
“Hey,” he said softly. “You did the right thing.”
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