“She’s manipulating you.”

Grandma gave a dry laugh. “That accusation sounds familiar.”

Aunt Linda grabbed her purse. “I’m calling my lawyer.”

“Please do,” Grandma replied. “Mine is already expecting it.”

Everyone began speaking at once — Marcus demanding a replacement check, Linda threatening to challenge the trust, Dad accusing Grandma of destroying the family, Rosa telling them to lower their voices.

I stood by the fireplace and watched the people who had always seemed so powerful become frantic and small.