” You don’t simply “borrow” $20,000 that wasn’t yours. You took that money like it was nothing because my grandmother left it for me. Now look at yourself.
This is karma, Dissident. You ought to get this. Maverick tried to say something, but I wasn’t done.
You’ve generally taken everything. The love and attention of my parents: It was always about you in everything. What, then?
This was unique. You stole this from my grandmother, the only person who actually cared about me. “Maverick bowed his head.
I screwed up, alright? “You thought what?” I asked. I screamed.
That I would not learn? that Gran didn’t give me enough?”
He did not have a response. The weight of everything hanging in the air made us stand there in silence.
My phone buzzed in my pocket just as I was about to turn and leave. It was Mr. Clearwater, Gran’s legal advisor.
“Mr. Clearwater?” I replied, keeping my eyes on Free thinker. “Juniper, I’ve been going over your grandma’s will,” Mr.
Clearwater said. As if he was aware that I needed some reassurance, his voice was steady and calm. There’s something you ought to be aware.
Your grandma anticipated this could occur.”
“What’s your point?” I asked, my heart beating in my chest. She had a strategy in place because she was aware that Maverick might try to steal the money. Only a portion of her estate was worth the $20,000.
Its remainder — her home, her reserve funds, her ventures — have at it, Juniper. She gave you complete control. I had no idea what I was hearing.
Everything?”
Mr. Clearwater confirmed, “Yes, everything.” Your grandmother was extremely direct. So that you wouldn’t have to rely on anyone, she wanted to make sure you were taken care of.”
Tears pricked at my eyes, however they weren’t simply from trouble.
Gran was aware. She had protected me in the only way she could because she had seen everything about this coming. She continued to look out for me even after she passed away: as yet showing me that I made a difference.
I took a full breath, steadying myself as I checked Nonconformist out. ” I trust that convertible was worth the effort, Free thinker. I hope the ride was fun for you.
He started, his voice shaky, “Juniper, I—.”
I cut him off by raising my hand. Don’t. Maverick, I’m done making excuses.
Simply save it.”
I turned and walked away without waiting for a response, leaving him there broken in multiple ways. I no longer felt like the forgotten sibling for the first time. That was guaranteed by Gran.
