In the video, Mother sat on her favorite old sofa, with our living room as the backdrop. Though pale, her eyes were remarkably clear and focused.
“Emma, I’ve failed you in so many ways over the years,” she began, her voice weak but determined. “These jewelry pieces are my gift to you–please take good care of them. As for Jason, he has already received the house and savings that should rightfully have been yours… I knew he was irresponsible, but never imagined he would be so greedy…“]]
Jason’s face cycled through shades of red, white, and finally a sickly green.[]
“That’s impossible!” he suddenly shouted, lunging toward the officer to grab the tablet. “This video is fake! My mother would never say such things about me!“]
Two officers immediately restrained him.[]
“Mr. Sullivan, please calm yourself!” the lead officer commanded sternly while continuing to play the video.[]
“…if Jason still tries to claim these jewelry pieces…” Mother sighed in the recording, “…then I ask Mr. Bennett to make this will public and pursue legal action against him… Emma, I’m so sorry…“]]
The video ended, leaving the room in profound silence.]]
I felt tears silently streaming down my face as Michael quietly took my hand.[]
“According to this legally binding will,” Mr. Bennett broke the silence, “Mr. Jason Sullivan’s actions constitute attempted malicious appropriation. I recommend the police take appropriate measures.“[]
Jason, still restrained by two officers, watched his expression shift from anger to fear.]
“Sis… Emma!” he suddenly turned to me, his voice pleading. “I didn’t mean it… I’m just short on cash right now… you know how business requires capital…”
I looked at him–my brother, five years my junior. When had that little boy who used to follow me around asking for candy transformed into this greedy stranger?]
“Jason,” my voice was surprisingly steady, “Mom gave you a house worth over 2 million dollars and more than a million in savings. You went through all of that in less than two months?“]
His eyes flickered before regaining their self–righteous gleam. “Investment failures happen! Besides, it was MY money! Mom always favored you–she saved all the good things for you!“]]
Mr. Bennett shook his head. “Mr. Sullivan, legally speaking, you’ve committed false accusation and attempted malicious appropriation. Officer, I believe you should…“[]
“I understand,” the lead officer nodded, placing handcuffs on Jason. “Mr. Jason Sullivan, you’re being detained for attempted. property theft and filing a false police report. Please come with us to the station to assist with our investigation.“[]
As Jason was led away, he continued cursing both me and our mother.[]
Only after the police car’s sound had faded did I collapse onto the sofa like a deflated balloon.[]
Chapter
“It’s over now.” Michael sat beside me, gently embracing me. “It’s all over.“[]
Mr. Bennett packed up his documents and spoke kindly. “Mrs. Sullivan, your mother planned everything thoroughly. This video will is legally unassailable–your brother cannot claim these items anymore.“]
I nodded, yet felt an indescribable sadness wash over me.[]
Not for the jewelry, but because I had effectively lost my last blood relative–though he had long since ceased to be the sweet little brother I once knew.[]
