I laughed, and when I asked who “everybody” was, Ethan whispered that it was “only an idea”. I told him that an idea is something people discuss together, whereas this was a demand. Claire hardened and stated that since I live alone in a house worth almost a million dollars, I am being selfish by sitting on equity while her mother suffers. When I stated that her mother is not my responsibility, Claire slapped the countertop and insisted, “She’s your family now”.
→ I didn’t raise my voice. I simply slid the stack of bills back across the counter, right into the center of the kitchen island. “You’re right, Claire,” I said, my voice steady and cold. “You taught me a valuable lesson today about priorities. Since your family comes first, I’ve decided to make room for your mother—by vacating the space you and Ethan occupy.” I turned to my son, who finally looked up, his face pale. “I have already instructed my attorney to file a formal eviction notice for all non-owners living in this house. You have thirty days to find your own ‘soft landing.’ As for your mother’s debt, perhaps she can move into your new apartment. After all, family comes first, doesn’t it?”
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