As the investigation unfolded, I discovered more than I had anticipated. Anna had been trying to keep the house afloat, taking on the role of caretaker in my absence. The financial strain had been immense, and she had taken on jobs within the mansion to make ends meet.
The house manager, it turned out, had been complicit in the scheme, following orders from a third party who had taken advantage of my prolonged absence. I felt a mixture of anger and betrayal, but also a sense of responsibility for leaving Anna to face the fallout alone.
One afternoon, I sat with Anna in the garden, the soft rustle of leaves providing a soothing backdrop to our conversation. “I never wanted this for you,” I admitted, my voice thick with emotion.
She reached over, grasping my hand with a strength that belied her small frame. “I know, Dad. But we can fix this. Together,” she replied, her determination shining through.
Her words were a balm, soothing the raw edges of my guilt. We had a long road ahead, but at least we were on it together.
Read more on the next page ⬇️⬇️⬇️
