$500 KPI: Surviving College Under Mom’s Rules Chapter 06
My father? Financial inheritance?
I was dumbfounded.
“That’s impossible. My mom said all the money was spent a long time ago.”
“Ms. Herbert was in charge of some of the money, yes. But that was just a drop in the bucket. Ten years ago, before Mr. Knapp passed away, he entrusted our firm with a special notarized will. He anticipated certain circumstances, so the conditions for this will to take effect are rather specific.”
“What are the conditions?” I asked, holding my breath.
“That you have reached the age of 18 and have come into an irreconcilable conflict, both financially and in daily life, with Ms. Herbert.”
After a pause, Mr. Donnelly continued, “Mr. Knapp said that only then would you truly need this insurance.”
A chill ran down my spine. Dad had seen it all coming.
“What exactly is the inheritance?” My palms were sweating with nervousness.
“Ms. Knapp, your father left you 30% equity in a cultural media company called ‘Flourishing Age.‘ According to current market valuations, this company generates a stable annual profit of over five million dollars.
“This 30% equity stake is sufficient to guarantee your basic living expenses, as well as provide ample financial support for your academic pursuits and future development.”
I was completely stunned.
Flourishing Age? Wasn’t that one of Bellham’s well–known cultural media companies?
Back when I was working as a part–time model, I’d practically kill myself just for a few hundred dollars. I used to hug my art books and fantasize about one day collaborating with Flourishing Age and landing on their fashion
cover.
How impossibly far away that dream seemed!
Since the company made at least five million dollars a year in profit, 30% equity worked out to 1.5 million dollars in dividends per year.
“Ms. Knapp, are you free? I’d like to meet with you in person.”
Mr. Donnelly’s voice pulled me back from my shock.
“Your father left a letter with us, and it’s for you.”
“Yes, of course I’m free,” I practically yelled.
“Great. Please come to Success Law Firm on Sonoma Road. I’ll be waiting for you.”
With that, Mr. Donnelly politely ended the call.
I checked the distance. If I ran, I’d make it just in time.
Fifteen minutes later, I arrived at Success Law firm, breathless.
Mr. Donnelly received me.
“Ms. Knapp, this is the 30% equity transfer document for Flourishing Age. It becomes effective as soon as you Sign it. And this is the letter your father left for you.”
Mr. Donnelly slid both documents across the desk toward me.
The moment I saw my father’s handwriting, “To my beloved Sabrina“, I burst into tears.
The letter read, “Sabrina, by the time you read this letter, I may no longer be by your side. But I know that you will grow up to be a strong woman. I’m so sorry I can’t be there to protect you forever, but I couldn’t just stand by and watch you be treated like a tool, ruthlessly exploited by your mother.
“I know your mother’s nature all too well. She values profit and control above all else. That’s why I’ve set aside this insurance for you, to take effect when you turn 18 years old. Promise me you won’t hate her. But learn to protect yourself, and live your own brilliant life.”
Tears blurred my vision.
Dad’s love had crossed the boundaries of death and was still supporting me in this magnificent way.
I wiped my tears and looked at Mr. Donnelly. “Mr. Donnelly, I’d like to trouble you with something.”
“I’m all ears.”
“First, I want to buy a new phone and get a new SIM card. Second, please send a message to my mother immediately on my behalf, as my personal legal counsel.”
I paused before continuing, “Just write–‘Boss, regarding the two million dollars in child–rearing expenses, please provide a detailed breakdown and invoices. My lawyer will be in touch with you accordingly.“”
Mr. Donnelly nodded. “Understood.”
