Chapter 6: The Locket’s Secret
While Dr. Reynolds conducted the genetic swab, Mia reached into the pocket of her ragged dress, which the maid had placed in a donation basket.
"Wait," Mia piped up, clutching a small, tarnished silver pendant shaped like a teardrop. "Mama said this opens with a key."
Arthur’s breath hitched. He recognized the heirloom instantly; it had belonged to his late wife, Evelyn. Clara had taken it the night she left.
With shaking hands, Arthur turned the tiny latch using the tip of his tie pin. The locket popped open. Inside wasn't just a picture—it held a micro-SD card folded inside a handwritten note.
*Father,* the handwriting read, *If you are reading this, Julian found a way to destroy my life. Protect my babies.*
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Arthur closed his eyes, a deadly chill washing over him. Clara’s downfall hadn't been an accident.
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