"Back when Rhys was dating, the girl almost called it off the moment she heard it was a blended family—with an unmarried sister-in-law still in the picture. I told her the house was Rhys's. That's the only reason she agreed to marry him." Her voice cracked. "Lola, I know I wronged you. But I didn't have a choice."
Dad sighed too.
"Lola, I know this isn't fair to you. But you know how good Christine has been to you all these years. Can't we just consider this repaying her kindness?"
A tangle of emotions knotted in my chest.
"Aunt Christine, I understand your situation. But this can't stay hidden. Leo's about to start school, and the enrollment slot for this villa's school district is tied to my household registration. The moment they run a check, everything comes out."
Christine froze. She clearly hadn't thought of that.
"Here's what I suggest," I said, softening my tone. "I have a small apartment downtown—also in a good school district. Vivian's family can move there so Leo can enroll. But this villa? You have to tell Vivian the truth."
Dad's eyes went red immediately. "Lola... thank you for thinking of this family."
I squeezed his hand. "Dad, we are family."