My Brother Wants to Thank Me... Or Ruin Me?
My younger brother, Oliver Lawson, calls me out of the blue and tells me that he wishes to transfer 30% of his company's shares to my name.
"Daphne, you've helped me out far too much over the years. Now that my company is making profits, it's only fair that you receive these shares."
Feeling quite surprised, I rush to OIiver's company. The paperwork is already laid out on the desk.
Suddenly, live comments appear in front of my eyes.
"Don't sign those documents! These aren't dividend shares! Instead, they are management shares, which makes you take on the company's debts!
"Oliver's company can no longer pay off its debts! Once you sign the documents, you'll become the jointly and severally liable party! The 30-million-dollar debt will be saddled on your shoulders!
"Your house, savings, as well as your daughter's school-district property will be seized by the court!"
I hold the pen, yet I make no move to do anything with it.
Oliver smiles as he pats me on the back of my hand.
"What are you staring at, Daphne? Once you're done signing, you have to treat me to a nice meal, you know!"
As soon as his hand touches mine, I hear his voice echoing in my mind.
"Daphne has had it too difficult in this lifetime. After the divorce, she has been raising Emma all by herself. I've always wanted to give her something to help improve her life.
"The dividends for the next quarter come to at least 100 thousand dollars. That should be enough for Daphne to clear her house mortgage.
"Our parents left us far too early in life, leaving us to rely on each other. If I don't treat her well, who else will?"
I can only hold the pen, feeling my fingers going cold.
Who should I believe?