Chapter 20: The Warning
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Breaking the Seal
Max sat in the dimly lit study, the envelope from Jonathan clutched in his hands. The brass key he'd found earlier lay on the desk beside him, a silent reminder of the weight of what he was about to uncover. With a deep breath, he slid a letter opener under the seal and unfolded the paper inside.
The familiar handwriting of his brother stared back at him, rushed and uneven, as if Jonathan had written it in a hurry.
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Jonathan's Cryptic Message
*"Max,
If you're reading this, it means I'm gone. I don't have time to explain everything, but you need to know the truth. The children are more than just my legacy—they're the key to something far bigger than you can imagine.
There's a group, a powerful one, who believes they have a claim to what's ours. They've been watching us for years, waiting for the right moment. The children's inheritance isn't just money—it's leverage. Their future, their safety, depends on keeping this hidden.
In my safety deposit box at First City Bank, you'll find documents that explain everything. But be careful, Max. The moment you start digging, they'll know. Trust no one, and keep the children close."*
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An Abrupt End
The letter ended abruptly, the bottom half of the page marred by an ink smudge and a partially written sentence:
"They'll stop at nothing to—"
Max stared at the unfinished thought, his mind racing. What had Jonathan been trying to warn him about? And why had his brother chosen him, of all people, to take on this burden?
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The Weight of Responsibility
Max leaned back in his chair, gripping the armrests. His brother's words replayed in his mind: "Trust no one."
His eyes drifted toward the study door, where the sounds of the children laughing with Elena echoed faintly. The weight of their safety pressed heavily on his shoulders. He had to protect them, no matter what.
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Seeking Advice
Elena found Max hours later, still seated at his desk with the letter in hand. "Max, it's late. You should get some rest."
"I can't," he replied, his voice hoarse.
"What's wrong?" Elena asked, stepping closer.
Max hesitated, then handed her the letter. Her expression shifted as she read, her eyes widening with concern.
"This is serious," she murmured. "Do you think this group is still watching?"
Max nodded grimly. "I got a text earlier. Someone knows I've found this."
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Cliffhanger (End of Chapter)
As Elena and Max exchanged worried glances, the study's lights flickered ominously. Max's phone buzzed on the desk again.
A new text message appeared:
"You've opened the door, Max. Now you'll see the truth."
Max felt a chill run down his spine. Whatever his brother had been hiding, it was already coming for them.
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