Sophie did her best to prepare for Christmas, but without Frank, the holiday season felt hollow. Her seven-year-old son, Matthew, deserved the magic of the holidays—even if her own heart wasn’t in it. Trying to keep the spirit alive, she lugged their artificial tree downstairs, ignoring the painful reminders of the husband she’d lost.
Her mother-in-law, Rachel, had been pushing to take custody of Matthew since Frank’s death, claiming Sophie couldn’t parent alone. Tensions between them flared, creating an undercurrent of unease. Still, when Rachel showed up unannounced with a suitcase in tow, Sophie tried to maintain civility for her son’s sake.
Not long after, Sophie’s own mother, Liz, also arrived uninvited, citing a desire to “help.” In truth, the last thing Sophie needed was two mothers watching her every move—especially when their real motive seemed to be questioning her ability to raise Matthew.
One evening, as Sophie tidied up the living room, her gaze settled on an Elf on the Shelf—one of the decorations meant to bring holiday fun. Something about its eyes seemed too realistic. Curious, she picked it up and discovered a small slit in its back. Inside was a hidden camera, along with a flash drive.
Continue reading on next page…