I closed the envelope and placed it back in her hand.
“Put it toward your new home.
The court ordered Callum to repay us.”
Elena’s eyes filled.
“Why would you do that for me?”
“Because refusing to become cruel is not the same as forgetting what happened.”
She hugged me carefully, giving me time to step away.
This time, I didn’t.
On Kieran’s sixth birthday, Graham called while I was placing candles on a cake.
“The final restitution payment cleared,” he said.
“Kieran’s savings are
fully restored, and the lender has removed every reference to you from Elena’s loan.”
“Is it finally finished?”
“Legally, yes.”
Kieran tugged my sleeve.
“Mum, the candles are melting.”
“I have to go, Graham.”
“That sounds urgent.”
“It is.”
Vivian stood at the other side of the table, waiting instead of taking charge.
My sister carried in a tray, and Kieran’s friends began singing before anyone was ready.
