Instead, it felt like another dark corridor opening onto a web of lies.

At the very bottom of the folder lay one last sealed envelope with my name written across the front in Brandon’s neat handwriting.

My hands shook so badly that I nearly dropped the envelope as I tore it open.

“Hannah, if you have discovered this file, it means you successfully followed my clues.

I pray that I am standing beside you explaining all of this in person, but I know that life does not always grant us the time or outcomes we hope for.

I need you to understand that I never believed Austin was intentionally trying to harm me or our family.