Chapter 7 - His Sister Walked Through the Front Door
Vivienne arrived shortly before ten.
She entered through the front door wearing an elegant cream coat, looking more annoyed than concerned.
Lucy was standing near the staircase.
Before Julian could speak, she asked Vivienne a simple question.
“Did you take my mom’s paycheck?”
Vivienne stopped.
“Who is this child?”
Julian answered.
“The person who noticed what the rest of us ignored.”
Vivienne looked at him.
“Julian, this has gotten completely out of proportion.”
“At least six employees had money redirected.”
“Those were temporary internal transfers.”
“They were salaries.”
“And they were going to be restored.”
Julian’s voice remained calm.
“Tessa was hours away from having nowhere prepared for her daughter to sleep tomorrow night.”
Vivienne turned toward Tessa.
“I’m sorry there was confusion.”
Lucy immediately responded.
“There wasn’t confusion. Mom knew she didn’t get paid.”
Vivienne frowned.
“Financial matters should not be discussed with children.”
Julian looked directly at his sister.
“A mother being unable to pay rent because someone redirected the money she earned is already a family matter for that child.”
Vivienne crossed her arms.
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“You’re becoming emotional because she confronted you in a hallway.”
“No. I’m finally paying attention because she confronted me in a hallway.”
