Chapter 11 - THE RELATIVES’ PHONES
The teenagers who filmed Jacob had posted clips to a private family story.
Not public internet.
Still bad.
One caption:
BENNETT SERVICE CREW LOL.
Another showed Samuel wobbling under the tray.
Someone off-camera said:
“Grandpa says they’re earning dessert.”
The video turned my stomach.
Then another clip mattered.
It began before the party.
Helen tying Rebecca’s apron.
Rebecca:
“I don’t want to.”
Helen:
“Your father already agreed.”
Lie.
Robert in background:
“He pays the bills. You pay attention.”
Then a cousin asked:
“Uncle Thomas paid for this whole thing?”
Robert said:
“Thomas contributes. I organize.”
Organize.
He had found the perfect word.
Video continued.
A relative asked about the neighboring property.
Robert smiled.
“By Monday, we’ll have the final family piece.”
The final family piece.
Me.
The birthday was investor theater.
My presence was supposed to culminate in an announcement.
Probably a toast.
Thomas has agreed to help us preserve this property for generations.
Except I arrived late.
May you like
Saw the children.
Everything broke before the sales pitch.
