A home-equity line.

Robert’s consulting income had fallen significantly over three years.

Teresa continued spending as though nothing changed.

Valeria’s failed businesses had consumed more than anyone realized.

My parents had built the appearance of wealth partly through borrowed money.

Robert had not stolen from me because he had a spare $450,000 and merely preferred mine.

He had no way to deliver the lifestyle he had promised Valeria.

So he reached into the one reservoir he believed remained available.