Chapter 5 - Grace Knew
Arthur drove to Margaret’s house.
Lily was asleep on the couch with a blanket pulled to her chin.
Margaret handed him the letter.
Grace’s handwriting.
Arthur knew every curve.
If I’m gone and Victoria begins asking about Lily’s money, do not assume she is helping.
Grace continued:
I love Victoria, but she has debts she hides behind confidence.
Arthur looked at Margaret.
“Did you know?”
“No.”
The letter said Grace had lent Victoria money twice.
Both times Victoria lied about why she needed it.
The second loan was never repaid.
Grace had also discovered that Victoria asked Charles about the trust before Grace died.
Grace confronted her.
Promised she only wanted to understand Lily’s future.
Grace did not believe her.
At the bottom:
I may be wrong. If I am, forgive my caution. If I’m right, please protect Lily before you protect family peace.
Arthur covered his face.
Grace had known his weakness.
He hated conflict inside the family.
His father had been explosive.
Arthur responded by becoming the opposite.
He mistook not fighting for keeping peace.
Margaret sat beside him.
“She knew you.”
Arthur laughed without humor.
“Apparently better than I knew myself.”
“Daddy?”
She opened her eyes.
“Is Elena okay?”
“Yes.”
“Is Vicky coming?”
“No.”
Lily relaxed instantly.
Arthur asked:
“Baby, did Victoria ever ask you about Mommy’s money?”
“Money?”
“Anything Mommy left you?”
“The blue box.”
“What blue box?”
“Mommy’s box.”
Margaret looked at him.
Grace had owned a blue lockbox.
After her death, they never found it.
Lily said:
“Aunt Vicky asked where Mommy hid the key.”
Arthur’s heart started pounding.
“When?”
“Lots.”
“Did you tell her?”
Lily shook her head.
“Mommy said only Daddy.”
Arthur leaned closer.
“Do you know where the key is?”
Lily reached under her pajama collar.
A small silver key hung from a string.
May you like
Arthur stared.
His seven-year-old daughter had been carrying Grace’s last secret around her neck for two years.
