Chapter 4 - Playing Dirty
Denise wasn't satisfied with just cutting off the college fund. She wanted total destruction. Within days, rumors began circulating in their small town. Anonymous posts on local social media groups claimed that Joanna had practically kidnapped Simon as a baby, manipulating her elderly parents and keeping Denise away from her son through emotional blackmail.
Joanna’s small business selling homemade gelatin desserts and catering local events suddenly dried up. Orders were canceled. People she had known for years looked away when they saw her at the grocery store.
One afternoon, the social services office where Joanna had finally managed to get a part-time job as an assistant called her into the director's office.
"Joanna, we received an anonymous complaint regarding your character," the director said uncomfortably. "Someone sent copies of old police reports from nineteen years ago when your sister alleged you wouldn't let her see the baby. We know it's nonsense, but given the sensitive nature of our work with foster children, we have to suspend you pending an investigation."
Joanna sat in her car in the parking lot and sobbed. Denise was systematically stripping away her livelihood, her reputation, and her joy. She felt completely powerless against her sister’s wealth and malice.
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But as she wept, her phone buzzed. It was an unknown number.
"Hello, Joanna?" a deep voice asked. "My name is Jonathan. I am—or rather, was—Denise’s fiancé. We need to talk."
