Clarice was heartbroken and shared the photo with everyone, hoping someone would spot the scammer. And now, here she was, in my living room. Her hair was darker, and she might’ve been wearing colored contacts, but I knew that face.
What happened next was a blur. Somehow, we sat down. I served dinner, and everyone chatted lively.
I nodded along when I could. But I kept staring at Nova. I checked my phone quietly, trying to find the photo Clarice sent.
I must’ve deleted it. I’d have to call her later. Suddenly, Russell coughed.
He’d noticed my distraction and asked me to help in the kitchen. “What’s wrong, Antoinette?” he whispered once we were alone. “It’s her,” I said urgently.
“The scammer Clarice told us about. I’m sure.”
“What? The one who broke her son’s heart and stole everything?” Russell frowned, hands on his hips.
“Are you certain? It could just be someone who looks like her.”
“I’m telling you, Russell, it’s her,” I insisted. “Clarice shared that photo for months after she disappeared.
I have to do something before she hurts Zander.”
Russell sighed but didn’t argue. “Just… be careful. Don’t accuse her without proof.”
After dinner, I had a plan and acted on it.
“Nova, can you help me pick a wine from the basement?” I asked, keeping my voice steady. She hesitated but nodded. “Sure,” she said, standing.
I led her downstairs, acting casual. Her shyness made small talk easy to avoid. But the moment she stepped into the dim basement, I turned and locked the door behind her.
My hands shook as I rushed upstairs. “Russell, call the police. Now!”
Zander jumped up, confused.
“Mom, what are you doing?!” he demanded. “That woman isn’t who she says she is,” I said firmly. “She’s scammed people before.
I’m protecting you.”
Zander looked like I’d hit him. “What? No!
You’re wrong! Nova’s not a scammer. She’s kind, honest, and my fiancée!”
I ignored him, called Clarice, and explained.
“Send me that photo of the scammer,” I pleaded, then hung up. Seconds later, my phone pinged with the image. It was her.
No doubt. I showed my phone to Zander and Russell. “See?
I’m not crazy!”
The police arrived soon after and confirmed I wasn’t crazy. I was just wrong. Zander went to let Nova out of the basement.
Oddly, she wasn’t scared. She was frustrated but… amused. She turned to us with a sigh.
“This isn’t the first time someone’s mistaken me for that woman,” she said. “I know who you mean. She’s caused me so much trouble.
I’ve been questioned by police before, and I’ve seen her picture. She’s blonde with brown eyes; my dark hair and blue eyes are natural. I’m not her.”
An officer nodded.
“I know this case. The real scammer used the name Nova and dodged police for a while. She scammed someone else before getting caught.
She’s been in prison for months now. I can confirm this lady isn’t her.”
My jaw dropped. I was relieved but so embarrassed.
Why didn’t Clarice know this? “Oh my gosh, I’m so sorry,” I stammered. To my surprise, Nova smiled and laughed.
“Well, that was a wild way to meet my future in-laws,” she joked. “At least I picked a good wine.” And she had great taste—the bottle she chose was one of our priciest. Her words made me laugh, easing the tension.
Zander hugged her, clearly relieved and so in love. “I told you she wasn’t like that,” he said, giving me a sharp look. That night ended with apologies and a fresh start.
Over time, I got to know Nova and saw how much she loved Zander. She was warm, funny, and a talented baker who even made their wedding cake. As for me, I learned not to jump to conclusions.
I’m still protective of Zander, but I’m learning to trust his choices. And now, we have a family story we’ll never forget—though I doubt Nova will let me live it down anytime soon.
