Chapter 2 - The Emergency Exit
Clara could feel the burning glares of a dozen wealthy relatives boring into her back.
She quickly walked over to the folding stool and scooped Toby into her arms.
He buried his face in her shoulder, still clutching the cheap space coloring book.
“Let’s go home, buddy,” she whispered, kissing the top of his head.
“We are leaving right now.”
Beatrice stepped into Clara’s path, her face twisted into an ugly mask of rage.
“You are not going to get away with this, you little thief.”
“I will hire the best lawyers in the country to prove he is not of sound mind.”
Clara stood her ground, her maternal instincts completely overpowering her fear.
“Move out of my way, Beatrice, or I will call the police.”
Arthur’s booming voice echoed across the lawn once more.
“If you touch her, Beatrice, I will freeze your trust fund before the sun goes down!”
Beatrice flinched and slowly stepped aside, her eyes wide with shock.
Clara carried Toby through the massive house, ignoring the whispers of the guests.
When they finally reached their rusted ten-year-old sedan, Clara locked the doors and let out a shaky breath.
Toby looked up at her with big, watery eyes.
“Mommy, are we really rich now?”
May you like
Clara gripped the steering wheel, her knuckles turning white.
“I don’t know, Toby, but I promise you will never sit by the trash again.”
