Page 247 of Hidden Depths

You have something that belongs to me.

I would appreciate its return.

The next time we meet, I hope your family won't be present.

I'd hate for them to witness another tragedy.

Respectfully,

Charles Ashford

The paper shook in my hands.

Not from fear.

From anger.

Ben reached for the letter.

"I'd like one minutes alone with this guy."

Nathan took the page next.

His face hardened as he read every word.

"He talks like a businessman."

Thomas nodded.

"That's because he thinks murder is simply another business transaction."

I folded the letter carefully.

"He's wrong."

Everyone looked at me.

"We don't have anything that belongs to him."

Thomas smiled.

"No."

"We have something he stole."

Silence settled over the room.

The old man's words seemed to echo inside the boathouse.

Finally, Calle spoke.

"What if that's the whole point?"

We all turned toward her.

"He doesn't know exactly what Grandpa left behind."

Ben frowned.