“You have a choice, Kevin,” she said softly, stepping forward. “Resentment will only chain you. Use what your father left you to build a life you can be proud of.”

Standing there, with her son and his wife stunned to silence, Martha felt the weight of her own journey lifting. She was not a freeloader, not a burden. She was a survivor, bolstered by the love and foresight of a husband who had ensured her independence.

As Kevin and Jessica gathered their belongings, still reeling from the turn of events, Martha turned to Mr. Henderson. “Thank you,” she said, gratitude warming her voice.

“Your husband was a wise man,” the lawyer replied, closing his briefcase. “And you’re a remarkable woman, Mrs. Summers.”

The locksmith finished changing the locks, ensuring Martha could enter her home without fear. As she stepped back into the warmth of the living room, she felt a profound sense of peace. The future was uncertain, but it was hers to shape, just as Robert had intended.

With a heart full of resolve and a home restored to her, Martha Summers knew she was ready to embrace the days ahead.