“I’m not authorized to discuss specifics over the phone, Miss Thompson. However, Prince Alexander has been briefed to provide complete details about your assets when you arrive in Monaco.”

After I hung up, I sat in my tiny apartment, staring at the bank statement. The family group chat was buzzing with photos of everyone’s new inheritances. Marcus had posted pictures of car magazines. Jennifer was already browsing Martha’s Vineyard real estate websites.

Nobody had even asked what was in my envelope.

Chapter 3: The Meeting in Monaco

The next morning at breakfast with Mom and Dad, I made the mistake of mentioning my plans.

“I’m thinking of taking that trip to Monaco,” I said, stirring my oatmeal. “The ticket Grandpa left me.”

Dad nearly choked on his coffee. “Monaco? Honey, that’s probably going to cost you thousands in hotels and expenses. You know your teaching salary can’t cover that kind of vacation.”