Chapter 17 - The Postcard
Eva found the next clue.
Police had allowed William to return home after the underground area was secured.
While sorting old family books, Eva carried him a postcard.
“This lady looks like Lily.”
The photograph showed a lighthouse in Maine.
Written on the back:
Claire, you were a brave little girl. None of it was your fault. — M
The card was dated twelve years earlier.
Claire had received a message from Margaret as an adult.
William confronted her.
“You told me you didn’t know Margaret survived.”
Claire stared at the postcard.
“I forgot about that.”
“No.”
William’s voice hardened.
“You’re done saying you forgot.”
Claire sat down.
She finally admitted Margaret contacted her several times.
Margaret wanted Claire to help expose Harold.
Claire refused.
“Why?”
“Dad had just paid my college debt.”
William stared.
“At first it was fear.”
Claire began crying.
“Then it became easier to stay quiet.”
That distinction mattered.
Claire had once been a frightened child.
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But eventually she became an adult who chose silence because silence benefited her.
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