Chapter 2 A safety deposit box at Citibank. When did Dad get that? How did I not know anything about it? After the initial shock came a chill that shot from my feet straight to the top of my head. Don't trust that will, and don't trust anyone. Anyone... did that include Blake too? I sat staring at those words, heart pounding. I could hear Blake on the phone in the living room-work stuff, his tone warm and professional as always. But to me, it sounded like he was speaking through a sheet of cold glass. I quickly copied the document to my personal flash drive, then completely wiped it from the computer. Only when I'd covered my tracks did I relax slightly, though my back was soaked in cold sweat. Next morning, I made up an excuse about wanting to go back to the old house to look around and pack up Dad's things. Blake was getting dressed and just nodded: "Go ahead, but don't get too emotional. Oh, your brother called me yesterday-wants to transfer Dad's old car into his name. Since you're going over there anyway, find Dad's passport and registration for him." His tone was so casual, like he was discussing the weather. Dad's car was old but beautifully maintained-his pride and joy. Marcus had been eyeing it forever, but Dad never gave in. Now, with Dad barely cold in the ground, Marcus couldn't wait to grab it. Disgusted, I kept my voice neutral: "Okay, got it." On my way to the old house, Mom called. 'Sweetie, where are you?" Her voice was tearful and exhausted. 'Mom, I'm heading over now." Please hurry! Your brother... he's going crazy at home again!" My stomach dropped as I hit the gas. The moment I walked in, I saw the living room trashed-Dad's favorite purple clay teapot lay smashed on the floor while Marcus stood red-faced, screaming at Mom: Why the hell can't I sell the house? MY name's on the deed! I can do whatever I want with it! Don't forget-I'M the head of this family now!" Mom collapsed on the sofa, clutching her chest, too upset to speak. When Marcus saw me, he froze for a second, then stuck his neck out defiantly: "Perfect timing! Tell Mom that Dad's will is crystal clear-everything in this louse is MINE! What right does some old lady have to tell me what to do?" helped Mom sit up and stared coldly at him: "Marcus, Dad just died." So what?" Marcus shrugged it off. "Dead people don't come back to life! Life goes on! Listen, Riley, I get that you're pissed Dad gave me everything, but don't try urning Mom against me!" I run this house now!" He smugly pulled out a property deed, waving it in my face: "See this? It's all MINE!" Looking at his disgusting face made my stomach churn. I took a deep breath, swallowing my rage, and told Mom: "Mom, come to the bedroom with me. We need to talk." I helped her into the bedroom and closed the door. Mom grabbed my hand, tears streaming: "Sweetle, I'm so sorry... if I'd known Marcus would be like this, your dad would never have..." My heart jumped. I pressed her: "Mom, do you know something? What really happened when Dad made that will? Did Marcus force Dad to change it?" I was almost certain that's what happened. But Mom's eyes shifted, changing her story: "No... nothing like that. Your dad was just worried about Marcus not making it on his own, afraid he'd starve..." Same old bullshit. I didn't buy it. "Mom, look at me." I asked seriously, word by word: "Did Marcus threaten Dad or not?" Mom's whole body trembled. She jerked her hand away and snapped: "What are you talking about! That's your own brother! How could he threaten your dad? If you don't believe me, just don't come back!" Her reaction was way too intense-which proved my suspicions. My heart broke with disappointment: "My brother? A brother who's forcing you to sell the house before his father's body is even cold? A brother who took every family asset and didn't leave his sister a single penny?" Mom, how long are you gonna keep lying to yourself!" Mom went quiet, then broke down sobbing. she hugged me, crying hysterically: "Sweetie, don't push me anymore... just... just take pity on Marcus, okay? He's already in his thirties with nothing to show or it, and he owes money all over town... If your dad hadn't given him this stuff, those loan sharks would skin him alive!" You married well-Blake protects you. Just don't fight with Marcus, please?" 'Don't fight." Those words again. Mom cried like her heart was breaking, holding me while her body shook like a leaf in the wind. closed my eyes and let her hold me. So I was the biggest joke of all. The family bonds I thought were strongest crumbled to nothing when reality hit. To them, I was a daughter who'd married out-no longer family. I was supposed to sacrifice everything for this house, for my useless brother. Even my husband thought I shouldn't have any connection to my birth family. After a long time, I gently pushed Mom away and wiped her tears. Mom, I won't fight." I looked into her eyes calmly. "But I'm packing up Dad's things myself. Stuff that belongs to me, I'm taking." Mom relaxed, nodding repeatedly: "Of course, of course. Everything in your room is still there waiting for you." walked out of the bedroom to find Marcus lounging in the living room, smoking. Seeing me, he raised an eyebrow: "So? Finally see sense?" I ignored him and headed straight for Dad's study. I had to locate the key to that Citibank safety deposit box. Title: The Good Girl's Dirty Secrets (English-dubbed) In CrushReel's ongoing romance, "The Good Girl's Dirty Secrets," a young woman ensnared in a decade-long struggle against familial constraints finds unexpected solace in a man who appears as her pathway to freedom. Initially leveraging his presence for escape, she is gradually swayed by his unwavering faith and unwavering dedication. Exploring themes of liberation and trust, the narrative delves into the complexities of breaking free from oppressive environments. The protagonist's evolution from using the man as a means of salvation to embracing genuine connection offers a poignant portrayal of emotional transformation. Amidst the backdrop of romance, the story skillfully weaves a tale of self-discovery and resilience, capturing the essence of human vulnerability and strength. What sets "The Good Girl's Dirty Secrets" apart is its nuanced depiction of intricate relationships and internal struggles, resonating with readers seeking depth and authenticity in romantic narratives. Available to read online at CrushReel, this captivating tale promises a journey of self-realization and love amidst adversity.