Chapter 10 - NATALIE’S DEBT
Natalie’s divorce did not ruin her.
That story had simply become useful.
Her ex-husband, Jason, paid support.
Sometimes late.
She earned $72,000 as a marketing coordinator.
Not rich.
Not helpless.
Her problem was debt.
Credit cards:
$58,000.
Car:
$31,000.
Private dance:
$11,000 per year.
Travel soccer:
$8,000.
Rent before moving into Mom’s house:
$2,700 monthly.
She wanted the children to experience no downgrade after divorce.
I understood the impulse.
Not the math.
Mom rescued.
Then I rescued Mom.
Money moved in a circle while everyone called Natalie the one in need.
The trust reimbursements changed that.
Natalie had received $46,200 directly for “auxiliary care.”
Where did it go?
Credit cards.
Dance.
Vacation.
Car payment.
Not Sophie.
I felt sick.
Still, I needed more than statements.
Rebecca requested underlying invoices.
Natalie had billed:
Homework supervision.
Weekend overnight care.
Transportation to enrichment.
Behavioral support.
Household integration activities.
“Household integration?” I asked.
Rebecca raised an eyebrow.
“Chores.”
May you like
My daughter carrying laundry had become a reimbursable service.
They were paid to make her work.
