I didn’t even have to phone him. News like that travels faster than any phone line when you have relatives who talk. Within two weeks, Todd appeared in the lobby, accompanied by the same nervous energy and an expensive jacket. Natasha didn’t come; I suspected she was busy spending what they already had.
Todd hugged me awkwardly, sat on the visitor chair, and launched into his script. “Grandma, I heard about Donovan. I am so happy for you. Listen, I wouldn’t ask, but Natasha needs another operation. Could I get my share early this time?”
I watched his face while he spoke. There was no shame there, no actual fear for this woman he claimed to love, only calculation. Once, that would have gutted me. Now it just settled over old scars.
“Todd,” I said, “I can help you, but not today. The lawyers are still sorting things out. Come back next week. I will meet with them, and we can handle everything in cash so it’s easier.”
His eyes lit up like a Christmas morning. He thanked me, called me an angel, and hurried away, already spending money I had not handed over yet.
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