Chapter 7 - The Departure Morning
Saturday morning dawned bright and crisp over the American suburbs.
Inside the house, the atmosphere was a chaotic mix of stress and smug entitlement. Kelsey stood by the front door, wearing her signature burgundy hoodie, checking her phone repeatedly. Two massive, heavy designer suitcases were packed and waiting by the entryway.
Ruby and Finn sat on the living room rug, looking confused and deeply sad as their mother ignored them.
Grant rushed down the stairs, jingling his car keys. He wore his casual sweater, looking nervously toward the kitchen.
Megan stood perfectly still at the kitchen island, drinking a cup of black coffee. She wore a simple white blouse, her hair pulled back. Her facial micro-expressions projected a chilling, untouchable calmness.
"We're leaving for the airport, Megan," Grant announced, his voice carrying a pathetic, forced authority. "I expect you to be kind to the kids while I'm gone. I'll be back in two hours."
Kelsey smirked, slinging her expensive leather purse over her shoulder. "Thanks for understanding, Megs. I promise I'll FaceTime the kids on Christmas."
"Before you leave," Megan said softly, setting her coffee mug down on the granite counter. "I have a goodbye gift for you, Kelsey."
May you like
Megan picked up a crisp white envelope from the counter and slid it across the island.
👉 Kelsey eagerly ripped open the envelope, completely unaware that she had just triggered the financial guillotine.
