Vanessa’s voice cut through the notary’s office, sharp and sweet at the same time. She wore a tight black dress more suited for a party than mourning, a delicate veil barely shadowing her eyes, and dark red nails that flashed with every movement—like she was already celebrating her new life. She was twenty-four, glowing with the kind of confidence that comes from believing you’ve been chosen.
I adjusted my neutral-toned blazer and folded my hands on the table. Instead of looking at her, I stared out the window—traffic rolling through downtown, sunlight bouncing off windshields, life moving on as if my husband hadn’t died three weeks ago on a highway, leaving behind betrayal, secrets, and a carefully crafted illusion.
Mr. Carter, the notary and an old family acquaintance, cleared his throat and continued reading.
“I hereby declare Miss Vanessa Reed the sole and universal heir to all assets, accounts, properties, and rights…”
Vanessa exhaled slowly, a satisfied smile forming.
“See?” she said, glancing my way. “In the end, he chose me. You were just routine. I was love.”
I said nothing.
Arguing with someone living inside a fantasy only echoes your own humiliation.