Greg’s voice stayed careful. “Derek, the statements your parents submitted show deposits from your account, and a co-borrower form carrying your signature, dated eight months ago.” My stomach dropped. I had never signed anything like that. “Our fraud team flagged it this morning,” he continued. “I need to know whether you authorized it.” I told him no, and that I had spent all night collecting proof.

Before he could answer, a truck roared into my driveway. Through the window, I saw Dad storming toward my door with Courtney behind him, and a third woman climbing out of her car. “Open up, Derek!” Dad shouted. “You will not ruin this family!” Greg’s voice dropped to a whisper. “One more thing. The notary who stamped that form is named Denise Pruitt. Does that name mean anything to you?” I looked at the woman on my porch and felt my blood turn cold.