Chapter 8 - The Ultimatum
Chloe’s face turned bright red with fury.
"You owe this to your son!" she screamed.
"You are a selfish, bitter old woman hoarding wealth while your own flesh and blood struggles!"
I ignored her completely and looked directly at Marcus.
"Is this what you want, Marcus?" I asked calmly.
"Do you want me to sell my home so your wife can maintain her country club membership?"
Marcus finally looked up, his eyes filled with tears.
"Mom, the debt is crushing us."
"They're going to repossess my car."
"I wouldn't ask if I wasn't desperate."
I felt a sharp pain in my chest, realizing how deeply she had brainwashed him.
"I will help you, Marcus," I said slowly.
"I will pay off your car, and I will help you find a modest apartment."
"But I will not give a single dime to Chloe, and I will not sell this cabin."
Chloe gasped, crossing her arms defensively.
"You can't separate us financially!"
"I just did," I replied.
I looked at Marcus, offering him the hardest choice he would ever have to make.
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"You can walk away from her toxic greed right now, and I will help you rebuild your life."
"Or you can walk out that door with her, and I will cut you off completely."
