"If you don't take the money, then you'll deal with the consequences. Leave Ashbrook, Eliana, or I'll make sure you can't survive in this city," Elizabeth spat, before throwing down the check and storming out.

Elizabeth's parting words rang in Eliana's ears, but she couldn't afford to dwell on them. Grabbing her phone, she called Samuel.

As soon as he answered, Eliana's frantic voice came through. "Samuel, you need to get Hopey from preschool right now! Your mom's trying ...