Dad admitted that he had approved several transfers because Mom convinced him the money was being used for necessary family expenses. He claimed he hadn’t understood the long-term consequences. But when the board chair asked whether he had reviewed the account statements, he admitted that he had. He simply hadn’t wanted an argument with Mom. That answer hurt almost as much as the theft itself. My father had watched my education disappear while telling me there wasn’t enough money to help me. Meanwhile, he celebrated my sisters’ expensive milestones.

Brooke finally admitted she had received money for her wedding, although Mom told her it came from family savings. Stacy confessed that she had suspected something after receiving her bracelet but never asked questions. I looked at both sisters, wondering why nobody had ever considered where the money came from. Grandpa reached for my hand. He reminded everyone that the fund had been created for one purpose: my future. The board chair announced that a formal review would begin immediately. Mom suddenly realized that the documents could no longer be hidden.