I Noticed Things Disappearing from My Sick Mother’s House, so I Installed Hidden Cameras and What I Saw Shocked Me — Story of the Day

Taking care of Mom was hard enough without the tension with my sister. Accusations flew when precious things started disappearing. I thought I knew who was to blame, but the truth shattered my world. Betrayal came from where I least expected, leaving me questioning everything—and everyone—I trusted.

I was scrubbing the kitchen counter after another exhausting day at work, the faint smell of bleach lingering in the air.

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

The more time I spent cleaning my mother’s house, the angrier I became with my younger sister, Jane. It felt like she’d completely forgotten this was her mother too.

This wasn’t unusual for Jane. In school, she was reckless—running away, taking money from Mom’s wallet, skipping classes. Yet, no matter what, she was always forgiven.

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

Jane’s brilliance seemed to excuse her flaws. She graduated with honors, earning a scholarship, and became the family’s golden child.

Now, Jane only visited Mom when she wanted something—or maybe to remind Mom of her presence so she’d stay in the will. Meanwhile, I faced the reality of Mom’s illness.

I had hired a caregiver, Nancy, but I couldn’t afford her full-time. After long shifts at work, I took care of Mom myself.

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

I had asked Jane to help, but she always brushed me off. “I’m busy with work,” she’d say.

But I knew she’d been unemployed for months. I had a job, a husband, and a son who needed me too.

“Violet!” Mom called from her room. Her voice sounded sharp, almost panicked. “Violet, come here!”

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

“I’m coming, Mom!” I called back, wiping my hands on a dish towel. I walked into her bedroom and saw her standing by her dresser. She was holding her jewelry box.

“My gold earrings are gone,” she said, her voice trembling.

“Are you sure you didn’t put them somewhere else?” I asked, stepping closer.

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

“No. I haven’t touched this box in a long time,” Mom said. “I wanted to give you something special to keep, but when I opened it, the earrings were gone.”

“Did anyone visit today?” I asked, frowning.

“No. Nancy had the day off,” Mom said. “Only Jane came by this morning. She just wanted to check on me.”

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

“I’ll ask Jane about it,” I replied.

“Don’t,” Mom said firmly. “Jane wouldn’t steal. I don’t want you two fighting again.”

“I’ll be careful,” I promised. “I just need to ask.”

After Mom went to bed, I drove to Jane’s place. My frustration had boiled over. I knocked on her door and waited. It took a while, but finally, she opened it.

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

“Hi, sis,” Jane said. She stepped aside, letting me in.

“Hi,” I replied, my voice cold. I glanced around her living room. Empty delivery boxes and tools were scattered everywhere.

“Working on something?” I asked, pointing at the mess.

“Just some stuff for work,” Jane replied. “But you didn’t come here to talk about that, did you?”

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

“Mom’s gold earrings are missing,” I said bluntly.

Jane folded her arms. “And you think I took them. Of course.”

“You were the only one who visited her today,” I said.

“Why would I take her earrings?” Jane asked, her tone sharp.

“Maybe because you’re broke. Maybe because you need money for some crazy stuff. Take your pick,” I snapped.

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

“I have a job now! Do you even know how much I’ve done for this family?” Jane fired back.

“You’ve done nothing! I’m the one taking care of everything!” I shouted.

“I told you to hire someone full-time for Mom, but you didn’t!” Jane yelled.

“Because I’d be the one paying for it!” I screamed.

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

“You don’t know what’s really going on,” Jane said.

“Then tell me!” I demanded.

“Why should I? You’ll just keep blaming me for everything!” Jane said. She turned away. “Leave. I’m done with this.”

“Fine,” I said, slamming the door as I left.

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

When I got home, Kaden was putting on his coat.

“Where are you going?” I asked.

“Just out for a walk,” my husband said, kissing my cheek. “Milo is asleep. Dinner’s in the fridge.” Then he walked out, leaving me in silence.

Kaden was a stay-at-home dad. We had agreed this was the best choice for our family. I spent most of my time either at work or taking care of Mom, leaving little time for anything else.

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

Milo needed stability, and having Kaden at home gave him that. Even with his hands full, Kaden often stepped in to help with Mom. He never complained, and for that, I was deeply thankful.

Over the next few weeks, Mom kept complaining that things were missing.

At first, I thought she was just confused, but then I started noticing it too. Little items—jewelry, keepsakes—were gone.

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

It always happened on the days Jane visited. My frustration turned into anger. How could she be so selfish?

I couldn’t ignore it anymore. I drove to Jane’s house, determined to confront her face-to-face.

Jane opened the door and stepped aside, crossing her arms. “Here to accuse me of stealing again?” she asked, her voice sharp.

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

“Mom has lost more things,” I said, trying to keep my voice steady.

Jane raised an eyebrow. “And you think I took them? Why would I?”

“Because this is how you’ve always been! You’ve done this before, and I know you need money!” I snapped.

Jane’s face hardened. “Why don’t you ask your husband what it’s like to need money?”

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

“Don’t bring Kaden into this!” I shouted. “He’s the only one who actually helps me!”

Jane scoffed. “If you’re so sure, call the police. Go ahead. Do it.”

“Maybe I will!” I yelled. Without waiting for a response, I stormed out, slamming the door behind me.

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

Instead of calling the police, I made up my mind to install security cameras at Mom’s house.

I went to the store, picked out a set of cameras, and drove back, determined to catch whoever was taking her things.

When I walked into the house, I was surprised to see Nancy. Her shift was over hours ago.

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

“What are you doing here?” I asked, setting the box of cameras on the table.

“Jane said she’d pay me to work more hours so you could get some rest,” Nancy replied, wiping her hands on a dish towel.

“That doesn’t sound like her,” I said, narrowing my eyes.

“Why not? She’s done it before,” Nancy said, looking puzzled. “She just asked me not to tell you.”

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

I stared at her, unsure what to say. It didn’t fit the picture I had of Jane, but I couldn’t argue with Nancy’s words.

I grabbed the cameras and began setting them up in the living room and Mom’s bedroom.

When I finished, I noticed a pile of new medical bills on the kitchen counter. I flipped through them and felt a lump in my throat. The amounts were enormous.

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

“Nancy!” I called out. “Do you know anything about these bills? They weren’t here before.”

Nancy walked over and glanced at the papers. “Oh, they come every month. Jane usually pays them.”

Her words left me stunned. I was starting to think this was all some kind of prank.

A few days later, Mom called me from her room, her voice anxious. “My gold ring is gone,” she said.

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

I felt my stomach twist. It was time to check the security cameras. I hadn’t told anyone about them—not even Mom—so whoever was taking things wouldn’t know to hide.

I sat at the kitchen table with my laptop, pulling up the footage. My heart raced as I fast-forwarded through hours of recording.

Then, I saw Jane. She was in Mom’s room, standing by the dresser. I leaned closer, certain I’d caught her.

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

She opened the jewelry box and looked inside. My anger flared. But then, she closed the box and walked away without taking anything.

Relief turned to dread as the next clip played. A few hours later, Kaden appeared.

I watched in stunned silence as he walked to the jewelry box, took Mom’s gold ring, and slipped it into his pocket before leaving.

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

I froze, unable to process what I was seeing. I had spent weeks blaming Jane, only to find out I had been wrong all along. My husband—my partner—was the thief.

I took the footage and drove home, my mind spinning. When I arrived, Kaden was putting on his coat, ready to leave again. I stepped in front of him, blocking the door.

“I know everything,” I said, my voice shaking.

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

He looked confused. “What are you talking about?”

“I know you’ve been stealing from my mom,” I said, holding up the flash drive.

His face went pale. “Did Jane tell you?” he asked, his voice trembling.

“What? No! Why would Jane tell me?” I asked, anger and confusion swirling.

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

Kaden sighed heavily and ran a hand through his hair. “Because I borrowed money from her. When she found out why, she stopped lending me more. She even offered to pay for rehab, but I refused. Then she caught me taking your mom’s jewelry.”

I felt like I had been punched in the gut. “I can’t believe this!” I shouted. “Why? Why would you lie to me and steal from my family?”

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

“I started gambling. I thought I could win it back, but I kept losing. The debts grew faster than I could handle. I borrowed more to cover the old ones,” he confessed, his voice cracking.

“How could you?!” I yelled. “I thought you were spending time with Milo, being the father he needs. Instead, you wasted my money, Jane’s money, and Mom’s things!”

“I didn’t mean to hurt anyone,” Kaden said quietly.

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

“And yet you didn’t stop me from blaming Jane,” I said, my anger boiling over. “You let me attack her while you hid.”

“I know. I hate myself for it,” Kaden said, his eyes downcast. “I’m ashamed.”

“I want you to leave,” I said firmly.

“Do you want a divorce?” he asked, his voice barely audible.

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

“I don’t know. What I do know is I can’t look at you right now. Pack your things tomorrow while I’m at work. I’ll text you when I’m ready to talk.”

He nodded slowly, tears in his eyes. “I’m so sorry, Violet. I love you and Milo so much,” he whispered before leaving.

As soon as the door closed, I broke down, tears pouring down my face. After checking on Milo, who was sound asleep, I drove to Jane’s house.

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

When she opened the door, I could barely speak. “I’m sorry,” I managed, tears streaming down my cheeks.

Jane pulled me into a hug without hesitation.

“And thank you,” I said through sobs. “For everything. Even for helping Kaden.”

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

“I didn’t do it for him,” Jane said softly. “I did it for you, Violet.”

“Please forgive me, please,” I begged.

“It’s okay. I’ll always be here for you,” Jane said, holding me tightly.

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

For illustration purposes only. | Source: Midjourney

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If you enjoyed this story, read this one: When a grouchy old man slams the door on a persistent teen, he thinks he’s rid of her for good. But when a hurricane traps them together, the storm outside reveals the truth about her shocking connection to his past.

This piece is inspired by stories from the everyday lives of our readers and written by a professional writer. Any resemblance to actual names or locations is purely coincidental. All images are for illustration purposes only. Share your story with us; maybe it will change someone’s life.

‘Happy Days’ Star Anson Williams Marries at 73 after Beating Cancer — His Series Co-star Was His Best Man

Anson Williams, known as Warren “Potsie” Weber from “Happy Days,” revealed he just got married at 73.

His friend he often calls “brother,” who was also his series co-star, served as his best man during the ceremony.

After beating cancer, he devoted his life to his family and lives in a small farm town.

Anson Williams is most popularly known for starring as Warren “Potsie” Weber in the American sitcom, “Happy Days”—a somewhat gullible yet good-hearted singer who entertained the audience throughout the show’s 11 seasons.

The iconic role became integral to Williams’ career and earned him three Golden Globe Award nominations for Best Series, Miniseries, or TV Film, and Best Supporting Actor. But recently, the actor has been in the news for a completely different reason.

Anson Williams as Warren "Potsie" Weber in "Happy Days" | Source: Getty Images

Williams, 73, is a happily married man after tying the knot with Sharon MaHarry on Saturday, May 6, 2023. The lovely and dreamy wedding ceremony occurred in his own yard, marking an important milestone in the actor’s life.

In addition to a rocky love life, Williams endured a harrowing health battle.
The TV icon looked dapper in a black suit, which he paired with a light blue dress shirt and a gray patterned tie. He also wore a boutonniere on the jacket’s lapel and finished his look with black spectacles.

On the other hand, Williams’ bride looked stunning in a full-sleeve floor-length lace gown comprising a boat neck and full skirt. She let her short blonde tresses down, with some of her hair pinned away from her face, and held a lovely flower bouquet.

The newlyweds beamed joyfully as they eternalized their love surrounded by their loved ones. Williams, who once ran for mayor of Ojai but was unsuccessful, wed MaHarry at a private residence in the seaside town of Los Angeles.

The couple’s wedding ceremony took place in the groom’s lush green and spacious yard, adorned with colossal flower and plant pots. Bright lights were hung from trees to create a mesmerizing effect and make the occasion even more special.

Friends and family watched in awe as MaHarry’s daughter walked her down the aisle to marry the love of her life. A romantic tune played in the background as the bride and groom vowed to stay together for the rest of their lives.

According to his Facebook profile, Williams got engaged to MaHarry on April 3. Throughout the ceremony, he wore a bright, warm smile that perfectly encapsulated his happiness. Williams’ best man was none other than his series co-star, Don Most, who played Ralph Malph on “Happy Days.”

The two men share a phenomenal bond that dates back to their time on the show. Williams considers Most a great friend and refers to him as his “brother.” The duo’s heartwarming connection has stayed strong over the years.

When Williams shared photos from his big day on social media, many fans noticed Most’s presence and left messages of appreciation and support for him and the newlyweds.

“Congratulations!!! What a beautiful bride and I love your best man! He’s still got it!” wrote one user. “Anson you both look amazing. I haven’t [seen] you smile like that in a long while. God Bless you both,” commented another netizen.

Meanwhile, the happy groom, who couldn’t contain his excitement while looking at his gorgeous bride, captioned his Facebook post, “A magical moment in time.”

Williams was said to have met his better half in the winter of his life and knew she was the one meant for him. After surviving a terrifying health ordeal and seeing his marriage of 30 years come to an end, he still believes, “It’s never too late to get it right!”

MaHarry has been running a successful career as a seasoned real estate agent and has also dabbled in advertising and writing. She holds a degree in English from Roanoke College in Salem, Virginia.

Earlier, she served as the senior vice president and creative director at Young and Rubicam Advertising Agency in New York. She has also written the book, “Crazy Mama: A Memoir of Love and Madness.” She has one daughter, Lindsay, who works as a journalist in Los Angeles.

Williams married MaHarry in Ojai, California, a small town where he moved in 2011 to enjoy a quiet, peaceful life. Talking about his decision to leave Los Angeles at the time, the “Melrose Place” alum expressed how he wanted his kids to live in a fail-safe community.

Back then, he only went to Ojai occasionally or on weekends but fell in love with its people and ambiance. Gradually, Williams started visiting the place more often with his family and moved there permanently.

In addition to falling in love with Ojai’s loving community and safe environment, the place reportedly offered Williams a tranquil respite from his personal woes. He further mentioned:

“I owe a lot to Ojai for that, for my health, my sanity, and the ability to move forward.”

Williams has been married twice before—he tied the knot with Lorrie Mahaffey in 1978 and called it quits in 1986. His second marriage was to Jackie Gerkens, and after staying together for over three decades and sharing five kids, there was trouble in paradise for the duo. Initially, they broke up but changed their minds soon after and decided to give their relationship another chance.

The duo first ventured on the divorce road in September 2019; however, a month later, Williams was reportedly in court to file for a dismissal. However, nine months later, things turned odd, and the couple finally divorced in 2020.

Actor Anson Williams and wife Jackie Gerken attend The National Conference of Christians and Jews Gala Honoring Robert Wright on October 16, 1989 at Century Plaza Hotel in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images

In addition to a rocky love life, Williams endured a harrowing health battle. A little before Christmas 2016, he received his Stage 2 colon cancer diagnosis.

Soon afterward, he had two surgeries and stayed in the hospital for three weeks. Not only did he emerge victorious in his battle against the life-threatening condition, but he also gained a new perspective on life.

After understanding his purpose for living, Williams said he developed a newfound love and appreciation for his family, including his children and grandchildren. He expressed:

“I always knew I loved them, and they were important, but now it’s at a whole new level.”

Today, Williams is a doting grandfather to four grandkids and a married man, and we hope he continues to celebrate life and create precious memories!

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