She carried a gift bag, obviously intending to feain innocence, to make herself appear harmless.
My mother and father followed behind, more cautious now, their earlier arrogance eroded by fear.
“You’re overreacting, Marina,” Veronica said sweetly.
But there was an edge to her voice, a tremor I recognized as fear trying to hide itself.
“We just came to check on Sophia, nothing more.”
I let my smile be the only response.
Calm, deliberate, a storm waiting to strike.
“Oh, I know,” I said softly. “You just wanted to apologize, right?”
Her eyes flickered.
My parents shifted uncomfortably behind her.
But I had already anticipated this.
Every word, every gesture, every thought they had about controlling me, I was ready.
From my pocket, I pulled out a small envelope sealed in red wax.
I placed it gently on the table in front of them.
“Open it,” I said.
Their hands shook as they did, revealing the contents.
Photos, videos, and documents.
Proof of every scheme they had carried out over the years.
My father’s illegal dealings.
My mother’s lies to cover them.
Veronica’s betrayals carefully recorded.
Everything meticulously documented.