Chapter 1 – The Name on the Deed
Chapter 1 – The Name on the Deed
The deputy adjusted his glasses and looked around the silent crowd.
"By order of the County Court, ownership of this estate officially transferred six months ago following the settlement of the Harrison Family Trust."
Every guest exchanged confused looks.
Margaret laughed nervously.
"That's impossible."
"My husband left this house to me."
The deputy calmly continued reading.
"The court further recognizes Mr. Daniel Carter as the sole trustee and legal owner of the Harrison Estate until the trust beneficiary reaches full age."
Vanessa's face turned pale.
Kyle whispered, "Trust beneficiary?"
Daniel slowly stepped forward.
"You never bothered reading your late father's final will."
Margaret stared at him.
"What are you talking about?"
Daniel unfolded another document.
"Your father knew exactly who you were."
"He knew greed would destroy this family."
"So he created a trust."
"The estate could never be sold."
"It could never be inherited by anyone who mistreated a direct blood descendant."
A murmur spread through the guests.
Daniel looked toward Lily, who still stood beside Ethan with muddy tears on her cheeks.
"The sole beneficiary..."
"...is Lily."
The world seemed to stop.
Margaret's knees nearly gave way.
"No..."
"No, that's impossible!"
Daniel's voice remained steady.
"Today, in front of more than a hundred witnesses..."
"...you physically assaulted the child who legally owns this estate."
One by one, guests quietly lowered their phones.
Not to hide the truth—
But because they suddenly realized they had recorded evidence.
The deputy closed the folder.
"Mrs. Harrison, you're hereby ordered to vacate the property immediately."
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For the first time in years...
Margaret had nothing to say.
