Chapter 11
The probate court temporarily removed Margaux from any role affecting Posy’s branch.
That part happened quickly because the professional trustee supported it.
Her role regarding Cecily was reviewed separately.
Benedict insisted Cecily not lose access to legitimate education, healthcare, and daily support because of her mother’s conduct.
Grant agreed.
A neutral adviser was appointed for Cecily’s distributions while the accounting continued.
Margaux publicly called it an attack on her daughter.
Benedict refused to answer publicly.
Privately, he told Cecily himself.
“You’re not losing your trust.”
Cecily looked frightened.
“Mom said you’re taking it.”
“I’m not.”
“Because Posy gets half?”
“Your branch is yours. Posy’s is hers.”
Cecily frowned.
“Then why did Mom say there wasn’t enough for both?”
Benedict felt anger rise.
Not at Cecily.
At how long she had lived inside Margaux’s manufactured competition.
“I don’t know what your mom believes.”
“Do you hate her?”
Benedict thought carefully.
“That isn’t something you need to carry.”
Cecily looked down.
“Posy hates me.”
“I don’t know that either.”
“She should.”
“No.”
Benedict leaned forward.
“You did not create the accounting.”
“I took the presents.”
“You were told they were yours.”
Cecily’s eyes filled.
“I knew Posy was crying.”
That was different.
Benedict did not erase it.
“Then that is something you may need to apologize for someday.”
She nodded.
“But your mother’s financial decisions are not yours.”
That distinction became important for both girls.
Margaux had spent months teaching them inheritance was moral rank.
More money meant more legitimate.
May you like
More gifts meant more loved.
Now the adults had to dismantle that idea without simply reversing who was favored.
