I adored my Grandma Marlene. Until college took me away, we’d lived together in her cozy little house, surrounded by her collection of old clocks. She was my safe place and my biggest supporter. When she called one evening, her voice weak and trembling, asking me to visit because she “didn’t have much time left,” I rushed home.
Brian, my older brother, was already there—complaining about dust instead of offering comfort. I spent the next few days cooking, cleaning, and repairing little things around the house, making sure she was comfortable. She’d smile through tears, saying it reminded her of when Grandpa was alive. A few days later, she passed away peacefully in her sleep. Brian didn’t even come to the funeral.
Two weeks later, the lawyer read her will. Brian got the house, which he’d always wanted. He smirked as if he’d won something. I was left “her old clocks,” and Brian chuckled under his breath. Then the lawyer handed me an envelope. In Grandma’s handwriting it read: Never underestimate these clocks. They are rare antiques from your grandfather, each worth about $40,000. Everyone gets what they truly deserve, my dear.
My heart swelled. The five clocks were worth nearly $200,000—and they carried the history and love of my grandparents. Brian’s smug grin vanished. “They’re worth that much?” he asked, stunned. I hugged one close, hearing its steady ticking. “Yes,” I said softly. “Grandma knew exactly what she was doing.” I walked out of that office knowing I’d been given not just an inheritance, but a piece of her heart to carry forever.