"Do you hate me that much?"
"I don't hate you, Dad," Kaylee said wryly, shaking her head. "I just don't think I would be comfortable in a strange land with a strange family."
"I understand, but I promise you, they're nice people."
"I can visit for holidays, but I can't live there. Mom wouldn't be happy about that."
"She's gone, Kaylee. She's out of this world."
"Her body is, but I don't want to make her soul suffer."
Kaylee's father gave her one last look. "Okay, I respect your decision. You can stay with Allen, but if anything happens, reach out to me. Okay?"
"Thank you, Dad," she said, hugging him tightly.
---
"I need her to stay so I can have access to her properties, you know," Allen said over the phone. He paused, then laughed. "I'm very certain she'll stay. She's young; I can easily manipulate her. She trusts me just like her mom did. Once I get her to sign those documents, we'll be together forever," he said with a grin. "Yeah, I love you too. Bye," he hung up, feeling merry.
---
Kaylee was back in the courtroom, ready to make her final decision.
"So, Miss Kaylee, what is your final decision?" the judge asked.
"Yesterday, I overheard something shocking, and I have it on record. Can I play it here? It pertains to this case."
"I'll need to see it first," the judge replied.
The registrar took Kaylee's phone and handed it to the judge, who listened to it quietly.
"Okay, put this on speaker," she said, handing it back to the registrar.
He played it, and Allen almost peed his pants. Kaylee had overheard his phone conversation the previous day and recorded it. Now, everyone knew his plan. He tried to explain but was cut short.
"May I make my final decision now, Your Honour?" Kaylee asked.
"Please go ahead."
"I'm not going with either of them. I wish to stay in Nigeria until I finish secondary school. Then I will take over my mom's businesses while studying part-time in higher education."
"Is that your final decision?"
"Yes, Your Honour."
"Okay. Mr. Allen Christian, you are charged with willfully attempting to deceive and manipulate Miss Kaylee regarding her mother's property.
Miss Kaylee Zachary, your case is dismissed. You may further your education here in Nigeria and support your mother's businesses immediately after. Court adjourned."
Kaylee's father rushed to hug her. "I knew that boy was no good."
"I'm glad I didn't fall victim, Dad," Kaylee said, hugging him tightly.
"Promise me you'll visit this Christmas holiday."
"I promise," Kaylee said, smiling. "Now I'm all alone in this cruel world."
"You're not alone. Your mom is with you in spirit, and you can always reach out to me."
"Thank you, Dad."
THE END