Chapter 9:
The convoy sped through the snow-covered streets of Dallas.
Zach kept both hands firmly on the steering wheel while Emily sat quietly beside him, clutching her father’s journal against her chest.
Neither of them spoke.
The brass key rested in Zach’s coat pocket.
It felt heavier than it should.
Because it carried more than metal.
It carried twenty-two years of unanswered questions.
⸻
Several blocks behind them…
A black motorcycle weaved effortlessly through traffic.
The rider never took his eyes off Zach’s SUV.
He spoke into a small earpiece.
“They’re heading to Central Station.”
A familiar voice answered.
“I know.”
“Do not let them reach Locker 217.”
The line went dead.
⸻
At Hunter Estate…
Richard Hunter stood alone in his office.
His hands trembled as he po
