And that’s when something inside Clara snapped.
She stood, her voice shaking.
“You’re right. No one’s using it. Because it’s Robert’s. And what you just said? That erased him.”
The room held its breath.
“That money wasn’t just numbers in a bank. It was science kits. It was laughter. Birthday candles. It was a telescope covered in his tiny fingerprints.”
She took a step forward.
“You may not understand what that fund means—but I do. Every cent in that account is a piece of the boy we loved and lost. One day, maybe it’ll help his sibling. But until then, it stays. Untouched.”
Amber didn’t respond. She grabbed her purse and walked out. The door clicked shut behind her.
Steven looked up, confused and annoyed. “Did she just forget I exist? Typical.”
Clara softened slightly. “Uncle Martin and Grandpa will get you home.”
Jay patted the boy’s shoulder. “Eat your dessert. Chocolate cake and lemon tart. Your mom needs time to think about her behavior.”
Martin reached for Clara’s hand and held it firmly.
“You did the right thing,” he said.
“I hated saying it.”
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