Chapter 9

I had invested my funds in the business during its most precarious period, aiding him through that crucial stage.

Earlier, his fury had led him to mistakenly believe I'd absconded with the money.

As this realization dawned on James, he experienced an intense, guilt-ridden ache.

The sudden discomfort in his chest intensified his growing sense of unease.

Lily continued her charade of distress and retrieved the dropped phone, offering it back.

With shaking hands, James cautiously took the device.

He examined our message history.

Our last exchange remained from three days prior. This prompted James to nervously tap the phone's exterior.

"Don't fret, big brother..."

Lily attempted to speak softly, but James pushed her aside.

He hurriedly made his way back to the cellar.

James was determined to personally investigate the cellar's contents.

"You ungrateful child, playing disappearing tricks? Do you think you're our only sister?!"