“Yes,” I said.

I took the brass key ring from my pocket and handed it to him.

“The house is yours,” I said.

Daniel watched the exchange, his mouth twisting into a bitter line.

“I hope you’re happy,” Daniel said.

“I am relieved,” I said.

I walked down the steps, my boots splashing in the puddles on the gravel.

Arthur opened the passenger door of his car for me, and I got inside.

I did not look back as we drove down the long driveway and passed through the iron gates.

The rain continued to fall, washing away the tire tracks behind us.

The money in my account was just numbers on a screen, but it represented my independence.

I had my name back, I had my assets back, and the Carters had exactly what they deserved.