Chapter 7

Margaret's mouth hung open, but no sound came out.

Her eyes went wide, like something had just hit her, and her face went pale, then flushed.

People in the living room started edging toward the door. Some pretended to get water, others claimed they needed a smoke. Everyone's expression soured.

Aunt Margaret stood there, twisting the hem of her shirt with her fingers.

She glanced at Uncle George, then at the ledger in my hand; her lips quivered.

"What about the money your dad owed Hartwell Building Supplies back then?" she suddenly blurted out, her voice trembling. "250 thousand dollars!…