By morning, police had arrested Richard and two accomplices. Investigators linked them to scams involving at least six other families.
When I returned home, Daniel was waiting outside.
“Mom, why didn’t you tell us?”
I lowered my head.
“Because I was afraid you wouldn’t believe me. But I should have trusted you. I had no right to take your money.”
He hugged me tightly.
“We could have faced this together.”
Sarah came outside, her eyes swollen from crying.
“I thought you were enjoying yourself while our family was falling apart.”
“I’m so sorry, sweetheart.”
“And our savings?”
I showed her the bank confirmation.
Every dollar of the $186,000 was back in their account.
Sarah started crying again, but this time she embraced me.
Two months later, Mr. Wilson helped me sell my seaside property to a legitimate buyer.
This time, I discussed everything with Daniel and Sarah.
When the money arrived, I invited them to see a beautiful three-bedroom house with a spacious kitchen and a small garden.
