But I could.
Lauren had a long, complicated history. She had struggled with honesty, and her track record with money wasn’t good. This wasn’t just a favor—it was a risk to our family’s security.
We drove to her apartment. When we confronted her, she showed no remorse. She simply said, “It’s gone,” like it was nothing.
I suggested Jake call her fiancé to verify her story. When he picked up, we were shocked: there was no wedding. He’d called it off the week before. Lauren had taken their shared savings and ours. He was devastated. So were we.
Then came another shock: Jake received a call from a lawyer. Lauren had used the money to hire legal help—she was filing a claim against him, seeking a share of the house. She alleged that Jake had pressured their parents into leaving it to him unfairly.
That was the turning point.
Instead of reacting with anger, we prepared. We gathered every document, every message, every piece of evidence. In court, her version of events didn’t hold up. The judge dismissed her claims, and she was ordered to repay what she had taken. We knew we might never see the money again, but the outcome mattered more. It was about protecting our family, our home, and the truth.
We’ve been rebuilding ever since. Our new emergency fund is now held securely in a joint bank account, with limited cash kept at home. Jake hasn’t spoken to Lauren since the trial. That night, as we got ready for bed, he looked out the window and said, “That door’s closed for good.”
This time, I believed him.