Chapter 7 - THE TRUST CARTER TRIED TO STEAL
The New Bedford trust was worth far more than anyone expected.
The dock property alone had become valuable because of nearby commercial redevelopment.
But the trust also held investments accumulated over twenty years.
Its total value exceeded twenty million dollars.
Ethan had never received more than modest monthly support.
The rest had been controlled through accounts overseen by Carter.
Julian hired independent forensic accountants.
They discovered unauthorized transfers.
Consulting fees.
Property management payments.
Loans to companies connected to Carter.
The amounts were staggering.
Carter denied wrongdoing.
He claimed he'd managed the trust responsibly.
He argued that Ethan had been provided for.
Julian disagreed.
"Providing someone with enough to survive isn't the same as giving them what belongs to them."
Ethan struggled with the revelations.
He didn't want to be treated differently because of money.
He didn't want strangers calling him an heir.
And he didn't want to become another Sterling fighting over property.
Julian listened.
Then said:
"You don't have to become anyone else."
Ethan looked at him.
"The trust is yours. What you do with it is your decision."
Eventually, Ethan agreed to work with an independent attorney.
He wanted the accounts reviewed.
He wanted the truth documented.
And he wanted the dock protected from being sold without his knowledge.
Meanwhile, Carter grew increasingly desperate.
He began calling Evelyn.
Leaving messages.
Demanding meetings.
One afternoon, he arrived at the estate without warning.
I was helping Evelyn with her medication when he entered.
"Mother."
Evelyn stiffened.
"Carter."
He looked at me.
"Leave us."
I remained beside her.
"Mrs. Sterling is resting."
Carter's face hardened.
"I wasn't speaking to you."
Evelyn reached for my hand.
"Clara stays."
Carter stared.
Then laughed bitterly.
"Of course. The nurse who thinks she's family."
I felt my face burn.
But Evelyn lifted her chin.
"She has treated me more like family than you have."
Carter went silent.
Then his expression twisted.
"You'll regret this."
Evelyn didn't move.
"No, Carter."
May you like
Her voice was steady.
"I regret not stopping you sooner."
