Martha’s words had clearly given Gerald an idea. The anger on his face vanished, replaced by a broad smile.
"Good, very good. I was just wondering how to get Brian a house and it turns out you’ve already bought one."
"Let me make the decision. Tomorrow, you’ll transfer the house to Brian."
"As a woman, it’s useless for you to keep a house. Besides, you said it yourself that you don't intend to marry or have children. Since you don't plan to start a family, the house would go to Brian when you die anyway."
"It’s going to belong to him sooner or later, so why not just hand it over now? You'll even save the inheritance tax!"
Vanessa was overjoyed, yet she pretended to hesitate as she said coyly, "How could I accept that? Although Elena is the elder sister and it’s natural for an elder sister to help her younger brother, I’m afraid Elena might not be willing."
My mother was furious. Without thinking, she slapped Vanessa hard across the face.
"You shameless bitch! I treated you so well and this is how you repay me? I kept wondering why you came here, stirring up trouble and trying to force me out. So, it was all because of the house!"