5
356words
No one moved.
Impatient,he shot security a look.“What,ignoring the owner?Want to lose your fees?”
The head guard,a friend,glanced at me awkwardly.“Mr.Carter,if we’re correct,Ms.West owns this place.”
Ashley gasped,staring at Liam,tears welling.“Liam,this isn’t your condo?”
She stared at the keys in my hand, and her voice trembling with disbelief.“And the car—you said it was mine!”
She clung to him,sobbing.“Liam,can’t you just make her give it all to me?She’s so rich—she can easily buy more of everything!”
Liam held her,eyes red with concern.
Facing me,his gaze turned glacial.
Before he could say a word,I fixed a cold smile on my face and flung the keys at Ashley’s feet.“Since you love hand-me-downs,take the man and the car.My lawyer will bill you.”
“But this condo?I’m taking it back.You’ve got two weeks to move out and restore it,or we’ll see you in court.”
I turned,leaving without a glance.
Liam’s frantic yell followed:“Natalie,stop!What’s that mean?”
I didn’t look back,driving my Beetle to the rental,numb.
Parking,I saw Mom under a dim streetlight,pacing,worried.
My phone showed dozens of missed calls—hers.
All my attempts to appear strong and in control crumbled. I ran to her and collapsed into her arms, sobbing uncontrollably.
She didn’t ask why,just held me,stroking my hair.
When I calmed,I spilled everything.
She was quiet,then spoke,voice tinged with sadness.“That was your boyfriend at the airport?The Maybach was yours?”
Guilty,I nodded,avoiding her eyes,bracing for disappointment.
Instead,she gasped.“A Maybach?My daughter’s making bank!You’re incredible!”
“And you own a condo? I was so worried you’d end up all alone with nowhere to call home.”
She let out a hearty laugh,eyes proud.
I was so stunned that I barely reacted before she ruffled my hair.“Don’t sweat it,kid.You’re a catch—you’ll find someone better.That jerk?Just a bump in your smooth ride.Your best days are ahead!”
Tears fell,but her words lifted the weight from my heart.
I leaned on her shoulder,nuzzling.“Mom,hungry?I’ll cook.”
She swatted me,grinning.“Cook?That place is a complete mess. We’re not staying there.”
“Pack up—we’re out.Once we’re settled,I’m treating you to a feast.Today’s your freedom day—let’s celebrate!”
I linked arms with her,feeling happier than ever.
