“Before closing the purchase, I spoke with a specialized lawyer to protect all of my inheritance and assets.”
Martha paled and asked why she would do such a thing. Maya took out another document and explained that everything in her name would remain exclusively hers, including the rent and any profits.
“I signed a property agreement, so this house and everything attached to it is legally protected from any claims.”
The silence in the room changed from anger to a palpable sense of fear. Austin asked her in a whisper if she didn’t trust him anymore.
“I had confidence in us, but what I no longer have is the naiveté to let your family run my life.”
Maya looked at him and said that if she hadn’t spoken up, he would have brought his entire extended family into her home without a second thought. Austin tried to approach her, but she backed away and told him there was nothing left to hide.
“And if this house wasn’t meant for us, then what place do you even leave for me in your life?” Austin asked with a broken voice.