Chapter 6 - The Morning After
Friday morning arrived with gray skies and a light dusting of snow.
At 8:00 AM sharp, the smell of fresh coffee filled Brittany’s kitchen, but the usual suburban warmth was entirely missing. Brittany sat at the kitchen island, tapping her manicured nails nervously against her iPad screen. She had spent half the night on antique trading forums, verifying the value of the 1952 Haviland Limoges set.
A complete 12-person service with both gravy boats and the oval platter wasn't just rare—it was a collector's Holy Grail, estimated between $35,000 and $45,000 at auction.
When Emily walked downstairs dressed in an oversized sweater and jeans, Brittany immediately stood up, smoothing her robe.
"Emily, good morning, sweetie," Brittany said, her tone suddenly dripping with soft, maternal sweetness. "I made your favorite chocolate chip pancakes."
Emily paused at the bottom of the stairs, instantly on guard. "I'm not hungry, Mom. I'm just getting some water."
"Sweetie, listen," Brittany said, stepping closer and placing a gentle hand on Emily's arm. "About last night... I think there was a huge misunderstanding. Your grandmother was feeling emotional, and..."
"She wasn't emotional, Mom. She was clear," Emily said flatly, pulling her arm away.
Brittany’s fake smile faltered for a fraction of a second before recovering. "Look, that china set is extremely fragile and extremely valuable. It's not safe to keep it in a high schooler's bedroom. Why don't we bring the box down to the dining room hutch? I'll store it properly for you until you get your own house after college."
Emily looked her mother dead in the eye. "Grandma said they're mine. And she said I should keep them in my room."
"Emily, don't be ridiculous—"
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"I bought a heavy-duty padlock for my closet this morning, Mom," Emily interrupted quietly. "The box is locked inside. And if I find out you tried to cut the lock, I'm moving into Grandma's house for the rest of senior year."
Brittany stood frozen as Emily poured her water and walked calmly back upstairs.
