Chapter 3 - Daniel’s Locked Drawer
A week later, Claire found the key.
It was taped beneath the back of Daniel’s desk in the study. Attached to it was a small paper label in his handwriting.
For Claire, if anything happens.
Her hands trembled as she opened the bottom drawer.
Inside were insurance papers, account summaries, a sealed envelope, and Marlene Brooks’s business card.
The letter was short.
Claire,
I hope you never need this. I know you hate talking about worst-case scenarios, but becoming Ava’s father made me think differently. The house, savings, and insurance are protected. Call Marlene before signing anything, especially anything involving your mother or Tyler.
You are stronger than you think.
Love always,
Daniel
Claire read the warning three times.
Daniel had known.
Not everything, perhaps, but enough.
She called Marlene that afternoon.
The attorney did not sound surprised.
“Daniel created a trust after Ava was born,” she explained. “He was concerned that grief or family pressure might leave you vulnerable.”
Claire felt embarrassed. “I should understand all of this.”
“You just lost your husband. Confusion is not weakness.”
Marlene arranged to meet privately.
Before they ended the call, she asked one question.
“Has anyone requested access to the deed, Daniel’s signature, or your identification?”
Claire thought of Tyler wandering into the study during the funeral reception.
May you like
Her stomach tightened.
“Yes.”
