Emma Opened Her Hand and Revealed a Missing Ring — Then Michael Saw the Muddy Footprints Leading Through the House
Chapter 4 — The Man With the Key
Margaret’s attorney was named Robert Hale.
He had handled the family estate for nearly twenty years.
Michael had met him several times.
Quiet.
Professional.
Trusted by everyone.
Claire explained that Margaret had told Robert about the hidden drawer while updating her will.
“Does Robert still have a key to this house?” Michael asked.
Claire shook her head.
Then stopped.
“He used to.”
“What does that mean?”
During Margaret’s final months, Robert frequently visited to bring documents.
Margaret gave him a spare key so Claire wouldn’t have to leave work.
After Margaret died, Robert said he returned it.
Claire had never checked.
Michael pulled out his phone.
“We’re calling the police.”
Claire nodded.
Then her phone rang.
She looked at the screen.
And froze.
Caller:
ROBERT HALE.
Michael stared at her.
“Answer it.”
Claire put the call on speaker.
“Hello?”
Robert’s voice sounded normal.
“Claire, sorry to bother you. I was wondering whether you’ve had a chance to look through your mother’s old study recently.”
Michael and Claire looked at each other.
Claire swallowed.
“Why?”
There was a pause.
“I may have left an old file there years ago.”
Claire looked toward the broken drawer.
“What file?”
Robert hesitated.
“Nothing important.”
Michael silently shook his head.
Claire asked:
“Were you here today?”
The line went completely silent.
Then Robert disconnected.
