Chapter 3: The Lie That Almost Destroyed Everything
Raymond stared at the documents.
According to Evelyn, Clara had hidden a part of her past.
A past involving money.
A past involving another wealthy family.
Evelyn claimed Clara only married Raymond for his fortune.
Rebecca stood beside her mother.
"She fooled you."
"She made you turn against your own family."
Raymond said nothing.
For a moment, doubt entered his mind.
Not because he believed them.
But because the documents looked real.
That evening, Raymond confronted Clara.
"Why didn't you tell me?"
Clara froze.
She saw the papers in his hand.
Her face immediately changed.
"Where did you get those?"
"Answer me."
Tears filled her eyes.
"Because I was ashamed."
Raymond softened slightly.
"Of what?"
Clara sat down.
"My father lost everything when I was young."
"My family struggled."
"The documents show I once received help from a charity connected to the Sterling Foundation."
"I didn't hide it because I wanted your money."
"I hid it because I knew your mother would use it against me."
Raymond looked at her.
Then he realized something.
Evelyn didn't show him the truth.
She showed him a weapon.
A weapon designed to destroy trust.
But before Raymond could apologize...
His phone rang.
It was his lawyer.
"Mr. Sterling..."
"You need to come to the office immediately."
"Someone has been transferring money from your private accounts."
Raymond's face changed.
"Who?"
The lawyer hesitated.
May you like
Then answered.
"Your mother."
