My heart pounded as I reached beneath the drawer, feeling for the hidden compartment shown in the photo. My fingers brushed against a latch. I hesitated, the weight of suspicion and hope heavy on my shoulders. What if this was all a cruel setup? Still, I had to know.

The latch clicked open, and I retrieved a slim envelope from the concealed space. My name was written across the front in Richard’s familiar scrawl. Inside, I found a letter and a will—a different will than the one Natalie had shown me. The letter was brief but filled with Richard’s unmistakable voice:

“My dearest,If you’re reading this, something has gone awry. I’ve uncovered some worrying behavior in our children—Natalie and Andrew are not who we thought they were.

I fear they’ve been influenced by someone with ill intentions. I’m trying to get to the bottom of it, but if anything happens to me, trust your instincts. Keep this new will safe. It ensures your security.All my love,Richard”