My mother’s legacy, the money she had worked her entire life to build, was safe.

“Thank you, Vance,” I said, standing up to shake his hand.

“I will keep you updated on the court dates,” he said. “Go home and rest.”

I walked out of the building into the cold rain.

I did not use an umbrella.

I wanted to feel the cold water on my face.

I drove back to the suburbs.

The Tudor-style house looked too large as I pulled into the driveway.

It was filled with memories of arguments, lies, and betrayal.

I stood in the entryway, looking at the high ceilings and the grand staircase.

I realized I did not want to live here anymore.

This house belonged to the life I was leaving behind.

I walked into the kitchen and made a cup of tea.

I sat at the table, looking at the local real estate listings on my phone.

I wanted something smaller, something near the water, far away from this town.

I wanted a place where no one knew my name or my husband’s family.