Chapter 6 - Tom’s Debt Explains the Rush
The family’s forensic accountant traced North Shore’s other payments.
Not all went toward land.
Nearly $210,000 had gone to lenders connected to Tom’s construction
company.
His business had been failing for almost two years.
He had personally guaranteed equipment loans and payroll credit.
Rebecca had hidden that from everyone.
Daniel remembered every holiday conversation.
Tom bragging about projects.
Rebecca talking about expansion.
Robert praising them for doing well.
It had been theater.
Tom admitted the construction company was under pressure.
He insisted the lake development would have solved everything.
“If we assembled the property, investors were ready.”
Sarah asked:
“Investors who knew the central parcel wasn’t yours?”
Tom said nothing.
Elaine showed them an investor presentation.
It described the lake house as:
OWNER-CONTROLLED PROPERTY — ACQUISITION EXPECTED.
Robert looked at Rebecca.
“You told people my home was already under your control.”
Rebecca’s eyes filled.
“I thought eventually you’d give it to me.”
May you like
Robert’s answer was quiet.
“That was never your decision.”
