*Samantha*
Entering the new year after yesterday's confrontation with my parents, I thought I would feel lighter, calmer, and happier. And in some ways, I do. Speaking with my parents and standing my ground finally granted me freedom, ease, and independence. My father can disinherit me; I don't care about his money. I've spent the last ten years away from their influence in New York. I've learned how to make my own money and don't need my parents to navigate life. No, that's not what makes me feel strangely uneasy; it's what transpired with Archer and his contract with the city. I didn't ask how much money we were discussing, but I know the sawmill was involved in supplying many contracted construction sites, and I can only imagine the damage I've caused. Although Archer assures me that n
