She would take Thomas away from Brent completely, just like she’d taken me away. There’s something else, Marcus said quietly. She’s been in contact with a lawyer.
Divorce papers are already drawn up. She’s just waiting for the right moment. I sat in that chair feeling like the walls were closing in.
My son was about to lose everything. His wife, his child, probably his house and his savings, and he had no idea it was coming. But I did.
What would you do? I asked Marcus. If this were your son?
He leaned back in his chair. Considering I’d warn him, but I’d also prepare for the possibility that he won’t believe you. Men in love do stupid things, Mrs.
Murphy, even when the evidence is right in front of them. I thought about Brent, working 10-hour days to support a wife who was planning to destroy him. Brent, who’d chosen Freya over me so completely that he’d thrown his own mother out of his life.
What if I started, then stopped? The idea forming in my mind was risky, potentially cruel, but it might be the only way to save my son. What if what?
What if we let her show her true colors herself? What if we gave her enough rope to hang herself? Marcus raised an eyebrow.
What do you have in mind? I smiled for the first time in months, feeling a familiar strength rising in my chest. I have an idea, but first I need to make a withdrawal from my bank account.
The plan was simple in its cruelty, which made it perfect for someone like Freya. She thrived on other people’s desperation, fed off their weakness like a parasite. So, I decided to give her exactly what she expected to see.
First, I needed to set the stage. I withdrew $5,000 from my secret account and opened a checking account at a different bank, one where Freya might accidentally discover my financial struggles. I made sure the balance was just enough to look like I was barely scraping by.
Then I called Brent. “Honey, I hate to bother you,” I said, letting my voice shake just a little. “But I’m having some trouble with my rent.
I was wondering if you could help just this once.” The silence stretched so long I thought he’d hung up. “Mom, you know things are tight with the baby and everything.
I understand, sweetheart. I just thought maybe you could ask Freya if she knows anyone who might need some cleaning done. I’m willing to work.
Another pause. I’ll ask her. I knew he would.
And I knew exactly what Freya’s response would be. The call came 3 days later, not from Brent, but from Freya herself. Eileen.
Brent told me about your situation, she said, her voice dripping with false sympathy. I might have something that could help you. Oh, thank you, dear.
I’m so grateful. Well, I have some friends who need household help, but I have to be honest. They’re very particular about who they hire.
I’d need to vouch for you personally. Of course, I’d be happy to provide references. Actually, I was thinking we could meet for coffee first tomorrow afternoon at Cafe Luna downtown.
I want to make sure you understand what would be expected of you. Cafe Luna was expensive, trendy, the kind of place Freya loved to be seen. Perfect.
I’ll be there, I said. And Freya, thank you for giving me this chance. Don’t thank me yet, she replied.