Elderly Heiress Disinherits Daughter-in-Law After A Surprising Discovery From Her Phone’s Ringtone
An elderly woman had her world turned upside down after a simple ringtone led her to discover her daughter-in-law’s true nature—prompting her to cut her out of her will.
Catherine, a once-successful businesswoman, had shared ownership of a major company with her late husband. Now widowed, she lived alone in her $2 million mansion, having passed the business down to her son, James. James was married to Stacy, a woman much younger than him, and they had a daughter, Andie. Catherine had barely gotten to know Stacy, who seldom visited and showed little interest in bonding.
Lonely in her large home, Catherine found companionship in her beloved dog, Pepper, whom she cherished like family.
Tragedy struck when James died in an accident. Catherine and Stacy were heartbroken, both openly grieving at the funeral. In the quiet nights that followed, Catherine wept in bed, comforted only by Pepper. “I miss my son so much, Pepper,” she whispered through tears.
Wanting to help her grieving daughter-in-law and baby granddaughter, Catherine made a generous gesture—she transferred ownership of James’ business to Stacy. Almost immediately, she noticed a change. Stacy began visiting more often, tearfully calling Catherine “mom” and claiming she didn’t know how to carry on without James.
Privately, however, Stacy was thrilled to gain control of the profitable business. “I’m rich!” she exclaimed when home alone with Andie.
Her visits became frequent, her tone warmer, and she showered Catherine with affection and gifts. Catherine, who deeply valued companionship, welcomed the closeness, finding comfort in Stacy and Andie’s growing presence.
Eventually, Stacy asked Catherine to host a grand birthday party for Andie’s second birthday. Eager to please, Catherine happily took charge, sparing no expense on the event.
Around the same time, Catherine’s old classmate informed her that her best friend Ruth was hospitalized with a serious illness. Normally, Catherine would have rushed to her side. But this time, she declined. “I’m so sorry, dear—I’m caught up preparing something special for my granddaughter,” she explained.
When the party finally arrived, the mansion buzzed with life. Most guests were Stacy’s friends and their children, but Catherine didn’t mind. Seeing Stacy and Andie laughing and enjoying themselves made her feel needed and, for the first time in a while, content.
