My father clutched his head and groaned. I’d hit the mark.
For 3 years, they’d done whatever they pleased, counting on the fact that my grandmother wouldn’t return. But the moment they heard she might come back, they panicked and rushed to fabricate evidence.
That panic was what led to their fatal mistake.
Attorney Watson pressed on mercilessly.
“According to the handwriting analysis, this signature matches Miss Ashley Thompson’s handwriting with a 99% probability. This constitutes clear forgery of a private document with a seal.
Furthermore, Miss Thompson falsely claimed to be Mandy’s legal guardian and withdrew $1 million from Mandy’s account under the pretense of maintenance costs for the vacation home. That constitutes fraud and embezzlement.”
Fraud. Ashley began shaking uncontrollably.
“Prison. This can’t be real. Dad, say something. You’re the one who said, ‘As long as we backdate it, it’ll be fine.’”
“You idiot! Shut your mouth!” my father shouted, but it was far too late.
“The police have already been notified,” Attorney Watson said calmly. “Miss Thompson, criminal charges will be filed against you immediately.”
“No, no, no, no.” Ashley grabbed her head and burst into tears.
“Dad told me to do it. He said Mandy’s stupid. She’ll never notice. He told me just copy her signature. I only did what I was told.”
“What? Ashley, you’re selling out your own father,” my father roared.
“But it’s the truth. Mom said it, too. She laughed and said Mandy will never be able to repay her student loans anyway, so we might as well put the money to good use ourselves.”
“Ashley, don’t say another word,” my mother screamed, lunging at her.
It was painfully ugly. The very people who’d been preaching about family bonds and love just moments ago were now hurling accusations at each other, desperately trying to shift the blame.
My grandmother watched the spectacle with cold eyes and spoke quietly.
“That’s enough.”
At those words, the shouting stopped dead.
“I’ve seen enough of your ugliness. Don’t stain this table any further.” She turned to Attorney Watson. “Mr. Watson, the revision to my will is complete. Correct?”
“Yes, Mrs. Hansen.” Attorney Watson produced a new set of documents.