Chapter 9 - Ethan’s Real Reason Was Debt
Ethan’s motive was simpler.
Money.
He owed almost $420,000.
Failed restaurant investment.
Private loans.
Tax debt.
Vanessa knew.
So did Diane.
Texts showed they expected Ethan to benefit indirectly if Vanessa gained access to Hale family discretionary funds.
Not through an inheritance.
Not legally entitled.
Through loans.
Vendor contracts.
“Family support.”
The same vague channels wealthy families sometimes use to help relatives without calling it a gift.
Vanessa promised Ethan:
Once the new account opens, I can solve this.
Ethan replied:
Then keep the baby alive until Dad signs.
Cruel wording.
No baby existed.
That was the joke between them.
Keep the baby alive.
Meaning:
Keep the lie alive.
That was why Ethan attacked Cesare.
If Cesare exposed the fake pregnancy publicly, the trust amendment died immediately.
So did Ethan’s expected rescue.
His punch had not been brotherly loyalty alone.
May you like
It was financial desperation.
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