I’d made cookies, the sugar cookies with frosting that Victoria used to help me decorate when she was a little. I’d bought presents for Emma and Jacob, carefully chosen, wrapped in bright paper.
I’d set out the decorations, including the ornaments Victoria had made in elementary school. The clay handprint from first grade, the popsicle stick reindeer from third grade, the glittercoed star from fifth grade.
We sat in the living room. Conversation was stilted. Victoria checked her phone constantly. Derek made small talk about the weather and traffic. Emma and Jacob barely looked up from their screens.
After about 30 minutes, Victoria stood.
We should probably head out. Long drive back.
That’s when it happened.
Before you go, I said, there’s something I need to tell you.
Victoria glanced at Derek.
What is it?
I’ve updated my will. I met with Richard Morrison in September.
Okay.
She looked confused, impatient.
Why are you telling me this now?
Because you should know that you’re no longer my primary beneficiary.
The room went very still.
Dererick’s eyes widened. Victoria’s face went through several expressions. Confusion, disbelief, anger.
Excuse me.
I’ve established trusts and charitable donations, the house, my savings, everything. It’s going to fund scholarships and help people who need it.
You’re joking.
I’m not.
Victoria’s face turned red. Her voice rose.
This is because I couldn’t help you with groceries. You’re cutting me out of your will because I was busy one time.
It’s not about the groceries, Victoria. It’s about everything. The missed birthdays, the lies, the way you talk to me like I’m a burden. The way you only call when you need money.
That’s not true, isn’t it?
You called me a week after our argument about the down payment. Want to know why? You wanted me to watch the kids. Before that, you hadn’t called in 2 weeks. Before that, 3 weeks. And every time you did call, it was because you wanted something.
Derek touched Victoria’s arm, but she shook him off.
So what? You’re punishing me? You’re going to give everything to strangers?
I’m giving it to people who might actually appreciate it. Who might remember that behind every donation is a person who worked hard and saved carefully and wanted their life to mean something.
I’m your daughter.
Then act like it.