NOTICE OF ACQUISITION: All outstanding debt of Bennett Enterprises has been purchased in full by the Aurora Collection. Dad read it twice, his lips moving without sound. “You bought our debt,” he whispered. “Every dollar,” I said. “The demand letter your bank sent Tuesday? That was me. I am the bank now.” Marcus shoved back from the table, insisting I couldn’t do that.

“I already did it. Nine days ago.” I turned each page for them, slow and deliberate. Foreclosure timelines. Board resolutions. A signature line waiting only for mine. “You have a controlling interest of exactly nothing. I decide whether Bennett Enterprises survives the night.” Mom’s glass slipped and cracked against her plate. Dad’s voice broke completely. “Sophia. Please. What do you want?” I let the silence stretch until it hurt.