4
Britney’s eyes widened at the money. Mom.
scowled. “What’s this?”
“I’m giving her everything. This should cover
what you spent on me,” I said, gesturing at
the suitcase.
Britney spoke softly, “Ashley, you can’t take
Mom’s money and pretend it’s yours to give
back.” She sneered. “This is Mom’s money,
isn’t it?”
I laughed. “Who said it was hers?”
Mom’s face darkened at my refusal to call her
“Mom.”
I stepped towards Britney. “This is all mine.”
She looked at Mom, who remained silent.
Britney paled. They thought I’d be helpless,
destitute. But Mom had inadvertently taught
me survival This money was the result
