andfather into this wasn't her original plan but she needed

before her 18th birthday and she had lef

to get i

hands of her stepmother on her 18th

to go in this new life of hers. She got d

rand estate, with its manicured gardens and imposing balconi

d been stripped away from her piece by piece, leaving he

and waiting for the inevitable icy reception. Moment

ng housekeeper. She had always been more loy

her voice steady despite

e gates began to open with a slow, reluctant creak. Erica stepped in, h

a. With her perfectly styled black hair and designer dress, Ophelia looked every

inst the doorframe. "Look who finally deci

a replied, keeping her tone neu

a smirk playing on her

Since her mother's passing, the inheritance had been a constant source of ten

Ophelia shot back, her t

er presence commanding. She was impeccably dressed, as always, her eyes sharp and calculating a

ntact with her stepmother. "I need to talk to you about my mo

iting for this moment. "Of course," she said smoothly, turning on h

study was just as she remembered it-dark wood paneling, heavy drapes, and a large mahogany desk that domi

hands neatly in front of her. "So, what's this

f the inheritance," she began, choosing her words carefully. "There are some assets tha

oked? I don't recall anything being overlooked. Ever

There have been missing properties that were clearly stated in

have no idea what you're talking about, Erica. Your mother was... unwell to

e kept it in check. "I dare y

playing a dangerous game, Erica. You have no power here, no influenc

ermined. "I'm not here to play games, Vivia

nd deliberate. "Very well," she said coolly. "If you're so determined, I'll have my lawyer review the documents

and resolve. "I'll be waiting for that review," she said, tu

g on a velvet settee, a smug smile on her lips. "Good luck, big sister,"

e pressing down on her, the coldness of it seeping into her bones. But as she stepped o

ut she had something far more important-her mother's love and the strength t