Chapter 5 - DELANEY'S VERSION
Delaney arrived at the police station the next morning with her own lawyer, Lauren Pierce.
She did not deny leaving Micah and Elsie.
She said:
“I made a terrible decision.”
That mattered.
No immediate excuse.
She explained the timeline.
Tuesday morning:
Delaney received notice that the buyer’s lender required final occupancy confirmation.
She discovered the family’s closing packet said the house had been vacant sixty days.
False.
Why?
Tessa had been using the property periodically for short-term storage and informal stays.
Then Delaney began staying there with the children during her apartment repairs.
Delaney refused to sign a revised affidavit unless the buyer received accurate occupancy information.
Tessa panicked.
Evelyn called it unnecessary.
The sale might be delayed.
Possibly repriced.
Delaney decided to meet the title lawyer in person in Helena.
Four-hour drive.
She planned to return the same evening.
She asked Tessa to watch the children.
Tessa agreed.
Payment:
$600.
Cash.
Delaney also left:
food,
formula-free snacks,
medication instructions,
and emergency contacts.
Why not tell Rowan?
Delaney looked ashamed.
“Because he would have taken the children and told me I was reckless for using the house.”
Rowan replied:
“You were reckless.”
“Yes.”
Lauren intervened.
“My client is not disputing that.”
Delaney continued.
Her car broke down outside Helena.
Then her mother arrived.
May you like
Not to rescue her.
To pressure her into signing.
