After I Finally Bought My First Apartment, My Father Demanded I Sell It and Hand the Cash to My Sister

The autumn winds brought a sudden, unexpected chill, but the warmth inside our home remained absolute. However, the ghosts of the past have a terrible habit of trying to rattle the windows just when you feel the most secure.

I was sitting at the kitchen island on a quiet Sunday morning, reviewing the architectural blueprints Lucas had drawn up for the clinic expansion, when Chloe walked into the room holding a thick, cream-colored envelope. She looked pale, her hands trembling slightly.

"This just arrived in the mail," Chloe whispered, setting the envelope on the granite counter.

I recognized the elegant, aggressive cursive handwriting immediately. It was Eleanor.

I didn't touch it. I looked at Lucas, who was pouring coffee. He stopped immediately, walking over and placing a comforting hand on my shoulder.

"You don't have to open it," Lucas said firmly. "I can throw it straight into the fireplace."

"No," I said, taking a deep breath. "If she's trying a new tactic, I need to know what it is. I am not hiding."

I picked up a silver letter opener, sliced the heavy seal, and pulled out the single sheet of expensive parchment paper. I read the letter aloud, my voice devoid of emotion.

Maya and Chloe,

I am writing this from my hospital bed at St. Jude's Medical. The doctors have informed me that my heart condition has worsened significantly. I do not have much time left. Regardless of our past misunderstandings, I am your mother. I am begging you to come see me one last time before I pass away. Please don't let me die alone.

Eleanor.

Chloe let out a choked gasp, tears instantly springing to her eyes. "Oh my god. She's dying, Maya."

I stared at the letter, feeling a cold, calculating logic overriding the immediate surge of familial guilt. The timing was entirely too convenient.

"Lucas," I said calmly, setting the letter down. "Call Dr. Harrison. He was the chief of cardiology at St. Jude's and one of my oldest patients. Ask him to casually check the VIP admission registry."