(Livia)
I held the receiver against my ear, trying to understand what Dad had just told me. My mother had lived in that house for more than twenty years. He was threatening to put her out because I refused to sign Julian's documents. I couldn't believe he would use her to punish me.
"You can't do that to Mom."
"It's my house, Livia."
"She's your wife."
"And you're my daughter, but you seem determined to destroy everything I've worked for."
"All I've done is refuse to lie."
Dad made an impatient sound before answering. He said Julian had already given our family enough money. According to him, my refusal was putting his business and marriage at risk. I wondered whether he cared about anything besides money.
"Let me speak to Mom."
"She's not available."
"Then tell her I want to tal
