Chapter 5 - RICHARD SAID IT WAS ALL FOR THE FAMILY
Richard hired counsel.
Then requested a formal family mediation.
Claire went.
Not because she wanted peace.
Because she wanted him talking.
The mediator sat at the head of a long conference table.
Richard opened with dignity.
“I made decisions for the good of the family.”
Claire almost smiled.
Of course.
He explained that the antique pieces were “economically dormant.”
He believed using their value for family experiences and investments was more rational than leaving them in vaults.
Samuel asked:
“Did you know Ava had beneficial ownership?”
Richard paused.
“I believed Mother retained ultimate control.”
Evelyn’s attorney produced emails.
One from Richard to Allison:
Technically they’re assigned to Ava, but Mother will never enforce it.
Richard looked at the page.
Claire said nothing.
Samuel continued.
“Did you believe the jewelry belonged to Ava?”
Richard leaned back.
“In a sentimental sense.”
“No. Legally.”
Silence.
Diane interrupted.
“This is ridiculous. She’s nine.”
Claire turned.
“That is exactly why trusts exist.”
Diane rolled her eyes.
“A child doesn’t need a half-million dollars in jewelry.”
“That is not your decision.”
“You’re acting like we stole food from her mouth.”
Ava was not present.
Claire had refused to bring her.
Good.
Because Claire’s rage became dangerously cold.
“You took property left specifically to my daughter, sold it, and paid for Allison’s debts.”
Diane looked at Richard.
Allison looked down.
That look interested Claire.
“You didn’t know about the brokerage transfer?” she asked her mother.
Diane’s face changed.
“What brokerage transfer?”
May you like
Allison went pale.
The alliance cracked.
