This resort will make a perfect home for Nathan’s kids. My mother beamed, raising her wine glass.
They’ll have so much space to grow up here. I sat at our family dinner table.
My fork frozen halfway to my mouth. The resort she was talking about, my Valley Lodge, was the one I just purchased yesterday, the one I hadn’t told anyone about yet, the one I’d spent 15 years saving for.
My name is Alexander Matthews, and at 35, I’d finally achieved my dream of owning a mountain resort. “What should have been a moment of triumph was quickly turning into a nightmare.”
“The skiing lessons alone will be amazing for them,” my father added, completely oblivious to my stunned expression. “Your brother has always wanted his kids to grow up in the mountains.”
Nathan, my younger brother, sat across from me, grinning like he’d won the lottery. His wife, Emma, bounced their 2-year-old on her knee while their four-year-old colored beside them.
“The perfect family picture. Exactly what my parents always wanted.
“When do you plan to move in?” Emma asked excitedly.
“The kids would love to spend Christmas there.” I set my fork down carefully, trying to keep my hand from shaking.
“What exactly are you all talking about?” My mother looked at me like I was slow.
“Pine Valley Lodge, dear, the resort that’s been on the market. Your father and I thought it would make a perfect investment for Nathan’s family.
Really? I kept my voice neutral even as rage built inside me.
And how exactly did you plan to acquire it? Oh, we’ve been talking to the owner, my father said proudly.
What happened next changed everything… FULL STORY on the next page.
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