Chapter 9 - THE TRAP WITH MY NAME ON IT
Evelyn Hart examined the financial records.
Her expression became serious.
“The account appears to have been opened using your identifying information.”
I stared.
“I didn't open it.”
“I understand.”
She turned another page.
“There's also an electronic authorization bearing your name.”
My hands trembled.
“Can they prove I didn't do this?”
“We'll gather evidence. The bank has verification records, and there may be information showing who actually controlled the account.”
I nodded.
Then she said:
“Claire, this may involve more than a property dispute.”
I looked up.
“What do you mean?”
“Potential identity fraud and financial misconduct.”
My stomach tightened.
Evelyn continued.
“We should report the suspected unauthorized account and preserve the documents.”
I nodded.
For the next several weeks, my life became paperwork.
Bank statements.
Legal consultations.
Identity verification.
Property records.
Statements to investigators.
Meanwhile, Michael kept sending messages.
Please don't do this.
We can fix it.
Think about the children.
I stared at that last sentence.
Then typed:
I am thinking about the children. That's why I'm protecting our finances and our home.
May you like
He didn't reply.
For the first time in our marriage, silence felt like a victory.
