Chapter 7 - The Names
Nora had never seen fear on Daniel's face like that.
"What names?"
He pulled the chair closer.
"Families."
Halcyon had built its reputation housing people after floods, fires, domestic violence, and sudden displacement. But according to Owen, some families were billed twice. Others had properties listed in their names they never occupied.
"Ghost tenants," Eli said.
Daniel nodded. "Real people. Fake leases. Money washed through Mercer properties and Halcyon vendors."
Nora looked at Lucy.
"And what does this have to do with my baby?"
Daniel hesitated.
The hospital room door clicked.
Charles entered alone.
"Everything," he said.
Nora's hand went to the call button.
Charles raised both palms. "I came to stop this before you make it worse."
"You brought guardianship papers."
"Because Lucy gives you standing in a trust you don't understand."
Daniel stood between them.
"Don't."
Charles ignored him.
"The Mercer Family Trust transfers voting control to the eldest living grandchild when certain conditions are met."
Nora stared at Lucy.
"You're saying my newborn owns something?"
"Not yet. But if an investigation freezes my shares, she becomes the next protected beneficiary."
Eli swore quietly.
Nora's stomach turned.
The guardianship was never about recovery.
It was about control.
Charles took one step closer.
"Give me the baby, Nora. I can keep her out of this."
Daniel laughed without humor.
"That's exactly what Owen said you'd say."
Charles's face changed.
"You spoke to Owen after the lake house?"
May you like
Daniel froze.
He had just revealed too much.
