Chapter 2 - The Empty Casket
Three agonizing days passed without a single trace of the wealthy tycoon's broken remains.
The authorities officially declared him hopelessly lost to the treacherous underwater cave systems of the mountain river.
Sarah hosted a lavish, heavily publicized memorial service in the heart of the bustling city.
She wore a custom-made black designer dress, dabbing at imaginary tears as powerful business associates offered their deepest condolences.
Mark stood respectfully at the back of the cathedral, hiding a smug, triumphant smirk behind his dark mourning sunglasses.
They truly thought they had committed the absolute perfect crime.
The following morning, they marched confidently into the towering glass office of the family estate lawyer.
Sarah was completely ready to claim the massive fortune, the sprawling mansions, and the highly lucrative stock portfolios.
The elderly lawyer carefully adjusted his spectacles and slowly opened a thick, leather-bound folder.
"According to the most recent amendment your husband made to his will, the estate cannot be settled immediately," the lawyer announced.
Sarah felt a sudden, cold drop of sweat slide violently down her spine.
"What exactly do you mean by an amendment?" she demanded, her voice abruptly losing its sweet, mourning tone.
"Your husband cleverly stipulated that in the event of an accidental death, a mandatory thirty-day waiting period must pass before any assets are legally transferred," he explained.
Mark shifted uncomfortably in his plush leather chair, shooting Sarah a desperate, warning glance.
"Furthermore, if his body is never recovered, the massive assets will be frozen in a blind trust for five years pending a thorough private investigation," the lawyer added calmly.
May you like
Sarah’s heart pounded fiercely against her ribs.
They desperately needed a body, or all their sinister, murderous efforts would be completely useless.
