“You are only willing to respect me now because of what I carry,” Bianca said. “Not because of who I am.”
The room erupted in arguments, overlapping voices and accusations. Bianca allowed the noise to rise and fall before raising her hand.
“There is something else,” she said quietly.
Everyone fell silent again.
“I have spoken to an attorney,” Bianca continued. “He confirmed that this house belongs solely to me. I have the legal right to ask anyone to leave if I feel unsafe or disrespected.”
Cynthia’s eyes widened. “You would not throw us out.”
Bianca’s smile was calm. “You told me to walk out of my own home to make room for betrayal. I simply return the suggestion.”
Walter stood quickly. “Think of appearances. Neighbors talk.”
Bianca shrugged. “They will speak of a family that chose convenience over integrity.”
Derek stepped toward her. “Bianca, please. Let us talk privately. Let us fix this.”
Bianca took one step back. “There is nothing to fix. You made your choice when you chose secrecy over honesty.”
Talia suddenly smirked, trying to regain control. “So you cheated too.”
Bianca’s voice remained steady. “I did not. But I will not stand defenseless while you rewrite my story.”