Chapter 17 - Unmasking the True Mastermind Behind the Suburban Family Plot
Up in Vermont, Mark walked out onto the wooden porch of the farmhouse, watching the fog settle over the dark mountains.
He held a glass of water in his hand, his mind racing with everything Sarah had revealed to him.
If Arthur was actually Thomas Montgomery, it meant the entire family legacy was built upon a colossal, decades-long crime.
Suddenly, the silent night air was shattered by the sound of approaching car engines down the long dirt driveway.
Mark turned around quickly, his hand dropping to his belt where Reynolds’ handgun was holstered.
Three dark SUVs pulled up to the house, their high-beam headlights blinding Mark as they illuminated the porch.
The doors of the middle SUV opened, and a tall, familiar figure stepped out into the damp mountain air.
It was Arthur—released on federal bail after posting a multi-million-dollar bond in Manhattan earlier that evening.
Beside him stepped out six armed men wearing tactical gear and carrying submachine guns.
“You always were the sentimental son, Mark,” Arthur called out, his voice echoing across the quiet yard. “Bringing the girl right back to where this all began.”
Mark drew his weapon, pointing it directly at Arthur’s chest.
“Stay back, Arthur! Or whatever your real name is!” Mark shouted, his stance rigid and firm.
Arthur chuckled softly, taking a slow, confident step toward the porch steps.
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“You think you know the whole story because Sarah gave you a few old photographs?” Arthur asked with a cold smirk. “She hasn't told you who was really driving the boat the night Julian died.”
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