All Free Novel
CHAPTER 17
David’s words were casual, but Emina’s heart was pounding. She’d been on a shopping spree with Olivia, charging it all to Laura’s card. “I can’t possibly carry that much money around. Can’t we handle this later?” she stammered.
“Mrs. Sharpe, I’m just here to witness the return of the funds to Ms. Godfrey.” James said, his tone even.
Just as Emma hoped for a reprieve, Laura spoke up, “Mom, I remember you always carried that card in your purse. Why not bring it today?” It was clear she wasn’t backing down.
The crowd began to whisper. “Look at Mrs. Sharpe, she’s avoiding showing the card. Has she spent it all?”
“700 million isn’t a small change. Would you just hand it over?
“I saw Mrs. Sharpe and Olivia at the mall, dropping millions. I thought the Sharpes were wealthy. Turns out, they were on Godfrey’s dime!”
“That’s low. Buying themselves pricey jewels while getting Laura cheap earrings?”
“Poor Ms. Godfrey! She deserves better.”
“Who’s taking advantage now?”
The murmurs made David’s face redden. “If you have the card, just show it! I don’t want rumors we’re using Godfrey’s money,” he barked at Emma.
“Indeed, Mrs. Sharpe, that money belongs to Ms. Godfrey. Now that she’s an adult, it’s only right to return it,” a guest chimed in.
Emma blushed with embarrassment. She turned to Olivia, “Olivia, give your sister the card.” They couldn’t check the balance here anyway; she’d cross that bridge later.
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eyes. turned to Olivia. “So she had the card? Why the secrecy? It’s not even hers!”
“Why would she hold onto it? She must want it for herself. Olivia seems sweet, but she’s got grand plans,” another guest remarked.
With great reluctance, Olivia pulled the card from her bag, feigning innocence. “Mom, is this it? You should have said something. I didn’t know it was Laura’s.”
Emma’s expression darkened, realizing Olivia was shifting the blame. Olivia knew exactly what was happening and now played dumb.
But Emma couldn’t afford to lose face. Better to take the hit than look bad as a family. “I forgot to mention it,” she admitted, swallowing her pride.
Olivia handed the card to Laura. “Sorry, Laura, Mom left it with me. I didn’t know it had so much money on it.” Laura knew Olivia was seething inside, having to give up money she thought was hers.
James took the card instead. “Mrs. Sharpe, I need to verify the balance,” he said, all business.
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Emma’s heart raced. She wasn’t sure of the balance-she’d spent freely, not keeping track… And now, she worried. about how to cover the 700 million so quickly.
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