Chapter 3 - THE SIGNATURE ADRIAN NEVER READ.
Adrian recognized his electronic signature on the emergency guardianship petition. It described Nora as unstable, Lily as neglected and Victoria as the safest temporary custodian.
“I signed a foundation compliance packet before I left for London,” he said.
Nora’s voice stayed level.
“You had counsel, an office and time. I had a locked door. Not reading is not the same as not participating.”
Adrian surrendered any authority over Lily and requested an independent child advocate.
Victoria tried to use his admission as protection.
“He authorized everything.”
“His negligence does not erase your confinement,” Nora replied.
The petition also transferred management of Nora’s mother’s rowhouse, a laundromat and four affordable apartments to the foundation. Those properties generated rent that funded Lily’s school scholarship.
Lily looked down at her bare feet.
“Grandma Vale said poor children should be grateful for any school.”
Nora held her hand.
“Your education was paid by families losing their homes.”
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Then an aide removed the lowest bottle shelf.
Behind it lay twenty-seven house keys, each tagged with the name of an elderly owner declared incompetent.
