Chapter 15 - The Unseen Monster
Ten minutes later, police cruisers arrived outside house. Their red and blue emergency lights flashed across window. Detective Miller knocked firmly on front door entrance. "Ethan, it is Miller! It is safe now!" I unlocked front door, letting the detective inside. "We intercepted the black sedan two blocks away," Miller reported. "The driver was arrested without any physical incident." "Marcus Vance is in custody at central precinct." A huge sigh relief escaped my tired chest. The final threat was caught by law enforcement. Our family was finally, completely safe from danger. Three months passed peacefully in our new home. Emma and I bought a beautiful house near lake. Emma opened a small local flower shop downtown. Color and health returned fully to her face. She was happy, peaceful, and thriving every day. I worked as a custom furniture maker nearby. The winter storm was a distant, fading memory. Tonight was sunny spring evening near calm lake. Emma and I sat on front porch drinking tea. The sunset painted sky in shades pink gold. "I feel so peaceful here, Ethan," Emma smiled. "We built a good life for ourselves," I replied. Suddenly, the postman walked up porch steps quietly. He handed me a small white padded envelope package. The package had no return address listed anywhere. I tore open the paper envelope with fingers. Inside lay a single heavy brass garage key. Attached to key was a small folded note. I unfolded the paper note, reading handwritten words: "Robert was just my puppet, Ethan." "I am coming for the gold bonds next." "Happy Birthday to sweet little Emma." My heart stopped beating in my chest instantly. The handwriting matched our late mother's secret partner. The real mastermind was still free out there. And he knew exactly where we lived today.
