Chapter 21 - A Midnight Package Arrives With A Terrifying New Threat
Midnight enveloped the quiet Malibu beach house as a cool ocean breeze drifted through the open living room windows.
Michael was sitting at the wooden kitchen counter reviewing physical therapy schedules for Elena when a sharp knock echoed at the door.
He froze, exchanging a cautious glance with Elena, who was resting on the living room sofa with Leo nearby.
Michael grabbed a heavy brass flashlight, walking quietly down the hallway to unlock the front entryway door.
He pulled the door open, shining the light across the dark porch under the glow of the exterior carriage lamps.
There was no person standing on the porch, but resting squarely on the welcome mat was a small, unmarked manila parcel.
Michael picked it up cautiously, carrying it inside and locking the heavy door securely behind him with a loud click.
He placed the package onto the kitchen counter, cutting the heavy twine with his pocketknife while his heart pounded.
He lifted the flap, sliding out a single black flash drive and a handwritten note scrawled in unfamiliar block letters.
May you like
As he read the first sentence under the harsh kitchen light, his blood ran instantly cold:
“You locked up Chloe and signed away the company, Michael... but you never checked who holds the primary mortgage on your wife’s hiding place.”
