THE MILLIONAIRE CHECKED THE WAITRESS'S BAG AND FOUND A PHOTO... IT WAS HIS LONG-LOST LOVE...

suspecting the waitress was stealing the millionaire searched the waitress's bag and was paralyzed upon finding a photo it was a photo of his beloved who disappeared 21 years ago Lucas Johnson a man known for his meticulous control and sharp instincts was on edge lately small amounts of cash had been disappearing from the register at his upscale restaurant it wasn't enough to hurt his business Empire but the idea that someone was betraying his trust noded him Lucas was not the type to let things slide especially when it came to something as sacred to him as his

restaurant his thoughts kept circling back to one person Hannah one of the quieter waitresses she was polite never caused trouble and always seemed to fade into the background but lately Lucas had been paying closer attention something about her didn't sit right she moved through the restaurant like a shadow her head always lowered her eyes always distant Lucas watched her from his office window as she cleaned up a table she was quick efficient but there was a certain sadness in her movements a weight that seemed to press down on her it wasn't just the missing money

that bothered him now it was the way she carried herself like she was hiding something much deeper the more he observed her the more certain he became he needed to know what was going on the missing cash was too much of a coincidence after another day where the numbers didn't add up Lucas decided to confront her as the evening wound down and the last of the customers left Lucas stood in the doorway of his office and called out to her Hannah he said his voice firm leaving no room for questions I need to see you

in my office she glanced up her eyes briefly meeting his before she quickly nodded she finished wiping down the counter then quietly followed him Lucas had already rehearsed what he would say but now face to face with her something felt different there was a tension in the air that he hadn't expected once inside his office Lucas closed the door and motioned for her to stand in front of his desk he sat down folding his hands watching her closely Hannah stood there her fingers fidgeting slightly with the strap of her apron she seemed smaller now standing

in the dim of the office almost as if she was trying to make herself invisible there's been some money missing from the register Lucas began cutting straight to the point his tone was calm but the underlying accusation was clear and I need to know what's going on Hannah's eyes widened slightly but she didn't say anything she just stood there Frozen as if she didn't know how to respond Lucas leaned forward let me see your bag her hands instinctively gripped the strap of her bag which was hanging Loosely over her shoulder for a moment it looked

like she might refuse but then silently she slipped the bag off her shoulder and handed it to him Lucas took it and began searching through it methodically at first he found nothing out of the ordinary just the usual things a wallet a few personal items a notebook but then tucked into a side pocket he pulled out something that made his heart stop it was an old photograph slightly worn around the edges but the image was unmistakable it was a picture of Margaret his fiance who had vanished over two decades ago Without a Trace she was

smiling in the photo the same Carefree smile he remembered the sight of it sent a wave of emotions crashing over him shock confusion and something deeper more painful that he hadn't felt in years his hand shook slightly as he held up the photo his eyes locked on it then without looking up he asked in a low voice where did you get this Hannah's eyes flickered with confusion and fear she instinctively reached out to grab the photo but Lucas pulled it away his gaze sharp where did you get this he repeated his voice firmer this time

Hannah blinked clearly rattled by the intensity in his tone it's it's my mother she said her voice barely above a whisper that's that's a picture of my mom Lucas stared at her his mind racing this couldn't be right his breath caught in his throat as he looked at Hannah really looked at her this time the resemblance was undeniable the same soft eyes the same delicate features how would he not noticed it before your mother he asked still trying to process what she was saying your mother is Margaret Hannah nodded slowly her brows furrowing yeah she

passed away when I was little I never really knew her why Lucas felt the room spin around him his heart pounded in his chest as realization hit him like a freight train Hannah wasn't just any employee she was his daughter the daughter he never knew existed the child Margaret must have had after she disappeared he stood up abruptly his chair scraping against the floor his mind was a whirlwind of emotions anger guilt disbelief but above all there was a single burning question why had Margaret hidden this from him before he could say anything else he

motioned for Hannah to follow him come with me he said his voice tight with emotion we need to talk talk Hannah followed Lucas down the narrow hallway of the restaurant her heart racing she didn't understand why he was acting this way why he seemed so rattled the way he had looked at that photo her mother's photo like it was something more than just an old picture his eyes filled with disbelief and a trace of something she couldn't quite name made her feel uneasy they reached a small sitting area near the back of the restaurant it

was a quiet space used mostly by staff during breaks Lucas stopped and turned to face her for a long moment neither of them spoke the tension in the air was thick almost unbearable finally Lucas broke the silence you said this woman in the photo is your mother Hannah nodded cautiously yes that's Margaret she died when I was really young I don't have many memories of her she looked down at the floor biting her lip talking about her mother always felt strange like trying to remember something from a dream that slipped away every time she reached

for it Lucas inhaled sharply as if he'd been punched in the gut his thoughts raced Margaret had died how could that be and yet if she had a daughter that meant Margaret had been pregnant when she disappeared pregnant with his child Lucas couldn't shake the flood of emotions the anger the regret the overwhelming sadness that he had been kept in the dark all these years he ran a hand through his hair pacing slightly you have no idea he muttered half to himself no idea what this means Hannah fured her brows clearly confused what do you

mean you knew my mother Lucas stopped pacing and looked at her directly his expression was unreadable but there was something deep raw in his eyes knew her he repeated I didn't just know her I loved her Margaret and I were supposed to get married we were engaged but she disappeared just vanished one night no one ever heard from her again Hannah's mouth fell open shock washing over her face wait what you you were engaged to my mom Lucas nodded slowly his mind drifting back to the last time he saw Margaret it was all coming back

now the argument the way she left in tears and how he thought he would never see her again he'd spent years wondering what had happened to her he'd convinced himself that she had left because of their fight but now standing here with her daughter everything he thought he knew was crumbling I had no idea Hannah whispered her voice barely audible she felt a pit form in her her stomach as pieces of her own life started to shift and click into place all the gaps in her mother's past the things she never talked about it suddenly

made sense Margaret had been running from something or someone Lucas sighed heavily his gaze falling to the floor I didn't know about you Hannah if I had if I had known Margaret was pregnant I would have he cut himself off unable to finish the sentence it was too much too overwhelming Hannah stared at him still trying to wrap her head around what she was hearing she'd grown up without a father never knowing who he was never asking too many questions because her mother had always seemed so guarded now this man her boss was telling her

that he was the one her father how was she supposed to process that I don't understand Hannah said her voice shaky why didn't she ever tell me why didn't she come back to you Lucas shook his head his expression pained I don't know that's what I've been trying to figure out for years I thought she left because of me because we had a fight but now now I'm starting to think there's more to it than that Hannah sank into a nearby chair her legs feeling too weak to hold her up this was too much too

fast her mother had always been a mystery a shadow in the background of her life and now out of nowhere she was learning that her father this man she barely knew had been searching for answers all this time Lucas seeing the confusion and hurt on Hannah's face softened his tone he sat down across from her his voice quieter now look I know this is a lot to take in I can't imagine what this must feel like for you but you have to believe me when I say I had no idea you existed if I had

I never would have let you grow up without knowing the truth Hannah stared at the floor her mind racing with a million questions so what now she asked softly what are we supposed to do Lucas leaned back in his chair exhaling slowly I don't know he admitted but I do know one thing I need to find out what really happened to your mother I need to know why she left why she kept you a secret there's more to this story Hannah and we need to figure it out Hannah looked up at him her eyes filled

with uncertainty how where do we even start Lucas stood up determination hardening his features there's only one place to start he said firmly the house the place Margaret and I lived before she disappeared I haven't been back there in years but maybe maybe there's something there that can give us answers Hannah hesitated unsure of how to respond but deep down she felt a pull a need to know the truth just as much as he did she nodded slowly okay she said quietly letun go Lucas glanced at her a mixture of relief and determination in his

eyes good we'll leave in the morning the drive to the old house was long and Silent the morning fog hung low over the winding road adding an eerie wait to the journey Hannah sat quietly in the passenger seat her fingers nervously tapping against the door she kept glancing at Lucas who was gripping the steering wheel tightly his jaw clenched the tension between them was palpable though neither knew quite how to break it for Lucas the drive stirred memories he had buried long ago he hadn't been back to that house in over two decades just thinking

about it brought back the flood of emotions he'd worked so hard to suppress the love he felt for Margaret the bitterness of their final argument and the crushing emptiness when she disappeared without a word his mind drifted back to that night it had started with a simple disagreement nothing out of the ordinary but as the conversation turned to the topic of their future and the unexpected news of Margaret's pregnancy things had spiraled out of control Lucas had been overwhelmed with work caught up in the pressure of building his Empire the timing couldn't have been worse

and he had said things in the Heat of the Moment that he would regret for the rest of his life you can't do this to me now Margaret I'm on the verge of something huge I can't afford distractions he had shouted his frustration boiling over Margaret had stood there tears in her eyes as she cradled her stomach protectively distractions she had whispered her voice shaking this is our child Lucas how can you even say that Lucas winced at the memory feeling the weight of his words all over again that had been the last time he

saw her she had stormed out of the house and by the time he'd cooled down and gone looking for her she was gone no Trace no explanation just gone he shook his head tried trying to push the memory away but it clung to him like a shadow Hannah's voice finally broke the silence what was she like my mom I mean Lucas blinked glancing over at her for a moment he didn't know how to respond how could he possibly describe Margaret in a way that would do her justice she had been everything to him kind strong

passionate and yet all of that had slipped through his fingers she was incredible Lucas said slowly choosing his words carefully smart funny stubborn as hell she could hold her own in any argument and she always fought for what she believed in he smiled slightly a rare expression on his usually serious face we had our differences sure but I loved her more than anything Hannah listened quietly absorbing every word this was the first real Glimpse she had ever gotten of her mother as a person not just a distant memory for so long her mother had been

this figure shrouded in mystery someone she could only piece together through fragmented stories now hearing Lucas speak it felt like Margaret was coming to life before her eyes why did you fight Hannah asked after a moment her curiosity getting the better of her Lucas sighed his grip tightening on the wheel again was an idiot he admitted I was so focused on my business on making a name for myself that I lost sight of what really mattered when she told me she was pregnant I didn't react well I was scared I thought it would ruin everything

I had worked for he paused the guilt of those words still heavy on him but I was wrong I should have seen it for what it was a chance to start a family with the woman I loved instead I pushed her away and then she was gone Hannah nodded her heart aching at the thought she had never known her mother but she could imagine the pain Margaret must have felt that night the loneliness the fear and Lucas Left Behind consumed by regret it was hard to imagine how different her life could have been if things

had gone another way as they approached the old house Lucas's stomach Twisted into knots the Place had been abandoned for years but it still held a strange pull on him the memories were etched into every corner every Creek of the floorboards he parked the car and for a moment neither of them moved this is it he said quietly the house stood at the edge of a clearing surrounded by overgrown grass and trees that seemed to press in from all sides the paint was peeling the windows were clouded with dust but it was Still Standing it

looked just like it had the night Margaret walked out the door Hannah stepped out of the car staring up at the house with a mixture of awe and apprehension this was where it had all started where her parents love had bloomed and then shattered she couldn't help but feel a strange sense of connection to the place even though she had never set foot there before come on Lucas said his voice softer now let's see if there's anything here that can help us they walked up the front steps together the wood creaking under their weight Lucas

unlocked the door the rusty hinges groaning as it swung open the inside of the house was cold and empty but it was as if the past still lingered in the air waiting for them to uncover its Secrets as they stepped inside Lucas felt the weight of everything he had lost pressing down on him this house had once been filled with love and hope now it was just a shell a reminder of everything that had slipped through his grasp Hannah looked around her eyes scanning the room taking in every detail do you think she ever came

back here she asked softly Lucas shook his head I don't know but if she did maybe there's something here something that can tell us why she left and what really happened to her the air inside the house was thick with dust and the old wooden floors groaned beneath their feet as Lucas and Hannah walked through the dimly lit rooms time had not been kind to the place cobwebs draped over the corners and the once vibrant Furniture had dulled to muted Shades of Gray but even through the Decay Lucas could see fragments of the life he

once shared with Margaret it was as if time had Frozen in the moment she left Hannah wandered into what used to be the living room her fingers lightly brushing over the back of an old chair this feels strange she said softly her voice echoing slightly in the empty space like I'm stepping into someone else's life Lucas stood in the doorway watching her this was our life he said his voice heavy with emotion we had plans we were supposed to get married start a family but everything fell apart Hannah turned to look at him her expression

unreadable she wasn't sure how to feel she had always pictured her mother's p as something distant and Untouchable but now standing here in the very home where Margaret had once lived it all felt incredibly real and knowing that Lucas had been a part of it knowing that he was supposed to be a part of her life was overwhelming they moved through the house in silence for a while each lost in their own thoughts Lucas couldn't shake the memories that flooded his mind as he walked through the rooms he remembered the long nights he and Margaret

spent talking about their future the plans they made to turn this house into a home but all of that had disappeared the night she walked out why didn't you ever come back here Hannah asked suddenly breaking the silence Lucas stopped in the middle of the hallway his eyes fixed on The Faded wallpaper I couldn't he said simply after she disappeared it was too painful this house held too many memories I thought maybe if I stayed away it would hurt less Hannah nodded though she couldn't fully understand she had grown up without those memories without the

weight of that loss but for Lucas it was clear that this place was more than just a house it was a monument to everything he had lost as they entered what used to be the bedroom Lucas paused the bed was still there though the sheets were covered in dust and the closet doors hung slightly open r feeling empty hangers Lucas hesitated for a moment before crossing the room and pulling open one of the drawers it was mostly empty except for a few small items an old necklace a hairbrush and a few loose papers Hannah came

up behind him her eyes scanning the contents anything useful she asked Lucas shook his head but as he was about to close the drawer something caught his eye it was a small envelope tucked into the the corner beneath the papers his breath caught in his throat as he picked it up turning it over in his hands the envelope was addressed to him he tore it open with shaking hands pulling out a single piece of paper the handwriting was unmistakable it was Margaret's his heart pounded in his chest as he began to read Lucas if you're

reading this then it means I couldn't face you I'm sorry I wanted to tell you everything but I couldn't not after what happened you said things that night things I know you didn't mean but they hurt I thought maybe I could stay that we could work things out but I was wrong I need to leave for both of us there's something I haven't told you something I was too scared to say I'm pregnant Lucas I found out not long ago and I didn't know how to tell you I know how important your career is how

much you've sacrif IED and I didn't want to be the one to take that away from you but this is our child and I can't stay I don't know what's going to happen from here but I can't let you give up your dreams for me or for our baby maybe one day you'll understand maybe you'll hate me for leaving but please know that I never stopped loving you Margaret Lucas stared at the letter the words blurring in front of him as tears filled his eyes she had been pregnant she had been caring his child the

whole time and he never knew he'd spent all these years thinking she had left because of him because of the argument but the truth was so much more complicated than he could have imagined she was pregnant Lucas whispered his voice barely audible she left because she thought I didn't want the baby Hannah's eyes widened you mean she left because of me Lucas nodded slowly still staring at the letter in his hands she was trying to protect me she didn't want to be the reason I gave up my career Hannah didn't know what to say she

had grown up believing her mother had simply passed away after a quiet life but now the truth was so much more complicated her mother had been running not just from Lucas but from the fear of ruining his future Lucas wiped at his eyes folding the letter carefully and slipping it into his pocket we need to find her he said his voice stronger now there's more to this she didn't just disappear I don't think she wanted to be found Hannah frowned what do you mean I think someone else was involved Lucas said the pieces finally starting

to come together in his mind Margaret wouldn't have just vanished Without a Trace there's something someone who didn't want us to be together Hannah felt a chill run down her spine what are you saying Lucas looked at her his eyes dark with determination I'm saying there's more to this story than we thought and we're going to find out what really happened the letter had changed everything for Lucas it was like a dam had broken all these years he had carried the guilt of driving Margaret away thinking his ambition had ruined everything now he realized she

had been trying to protect him shielding him from the decision she thought would destroy his future but that decision had destroyed them both in the end as they drove back from the old house the weight of the New Revelations hung heavily in the air Hannah stared out of the window trying to process what she had just learned she had always felt a certain distance from her mother even in memory Margaret had always been a vague figure someone she could never fully understand but now it was as if pieces of her past were beginning to fall

into place for do you think she ever planned to come back Hannah asked quietly breaking the silence Lucas kept his eyes on the road his jaw tight I don't know he admitted but if she had come back I would have been here I would have been waiting I didn't know about the pregnancy about you I can't imagine how scared she must have been but I would have done everything to make it right Hannah nodded her fingers tracing the edge of the letter Lucas had given her to hold she had read it several times now and

each time her understanding of her mother deepened Margaret had been scared but more than that she had been conflicted the love she had for Lucas mixed with the fear of holding him back had torn her apart but why didn't she come back Hannah pressed after all these years she could have found you she could have told you about me Lucas sighed his his hands tightening on the steering wheel that's the part that doesn't make sense there had to be something more Margaret wouldn't have stayed away for no reason and if she didn't I think someone

kept her away Hannah's brow furrowed you really think someone else was involved Lucas glanced at her his eyes dark with determination there's no other explanation Margaret was strong willed but she wouldn't have just disappeared like that someone made sure she couldn't come back and whoever it was they've been hiding the truth for years the car fell into silence again as they both contemplated what this could mean Hannah's mind raced with possibilities but none of them made sense who could have had a motive to keep Margaret away and why she had so many questions and with

each passing minute the Need For answers grew stronger by the time they reached Lucas's home night had already fallen the lights of the city glittered in the distance but inside the car the mood was still heavy Lucas parked the car and turned off the engine but neither of them moved to get out what do we do now Hannah asked her voice soft but steady Lucas turned to face her his expression Resolute we find her wherever she is we'll find her and we'll find out the truth about what really happened [Music] Hannah nodded a mix of

fear and hope swirling inside her for the first time in her life she had a connection to her past a father who wanted to know her a mother who had fought for her in ways she never understood but that connection came with the weight of so many unanswered questions she wasn't sure if they would ever find Margaret but for the first time she had hope as they stepped out of the car Lucas's phone buzzed he glanced at the screen and frowned it was an unknown number normally he would have ignored it but something compelled him

to answer hello he said his voice cautious there was a pause on the other end followed by a deep grally voice Lucas Johnson Lucas stiffened who's asking the voice chuckled Darkly I hear you've been digging into the past that's dangerous you know Lucas's heart skipped to beat who the hell is this someone who knows things things you don't want to know but since you've started looking maybe it's time you found out the truth Lucas's grip on the phone tightened what are you talking about the voice on the other end hesitated for a moment before speaking

again meet me tomorrow night 900 p.m. at the old Pier you'll get your answer but be careful some truths are better left buried the line went dead before Lucas could respond Hannah noticing the tension in Lucas's expression looked at him with concern what was that about Lucas slowly lowered the phone his mind racing someone knows something he said his voice low they want to meet me tomorrow at the old Pier Hannah's eyes widened do you think it's connected to Mom Lucas nodded grimly it has to be someone knows what happened to her and they're ready

to talk but what if it's dangerous Hannah asked worry creeping into her voice Lucas met her gaze his expression unreadable it might be but we don't have a choice we need answers the next day felt like it stretched on forever Lucas barely slept his mind turning over every possible scenario who was this mysterious caller what did they know and more importantly could he trust them as night fell the air grew colder and the city streets emptied Lucas stood by the door ready to leave when Hannah appeared at the bottom of the stairs I'm coming with

you she said firmly Lucas shook his head it's too dangerous I don't know what we're walking into Hannah crossed her arms her gaze unwavering I don't care this is about our family I deserve to know the truth too Lucas hesitated he didn't want to put her In Harm's Way but he couldn't deny that she had every right to be there after a long moment he nodded okay let's go they drove through the quiet streets the tension in the car growing with every mile when they arrived at the peer the wind was sharp cutting through the

silence the old docks creaked under their feet as they walked toward the meeting point Lucas scanned the area his eyes darting to every shadow every movement stay close he whispered to Hannah just as they reached the end of the pier a figure emerged from the darkness stepping into the dim light of a nearby Street Lamp Mr Johnson the man said his voice the same grally tone from the phone call I'm Glad You Came the man stood there his face obscured by the low light of the pier single flickering lamp Lucas narrowed his eyes his body

tense as he approached keeping Hannah slightly behind him he didn't trust this stranger but something about the situation felt inevitable this was their only lead whoever this man was he held the answers they had been searching for you said you had information Lucas said his voice steady but his nerves clearly on edge so talk the man took a slow breath his expression unreadable in the shadows you've been looking for Margaret he began his tone measured deliberate I can tell you where she is Hannah's breath caught in her throat and she stepped forward slightly her eyes

wide Lucas reached out gently pulling her back though his heart was pounding just as hard as hers the idea that after all these years someone might finally tell him where Margaret had gone it was almost too much to process where is she Lucas demanded his patient wearing thin the man tilted his head slightly almost as if he were sizing Lucas up she's alive he said flatly but I'm sure you knew that already didn't you Lucas's eyes flickered a mix of relief and anger surging through him Margaret was alive she hadn't disappeared or died died like

they had all assumed but if she was alive why hadn't she come back why had she stayed hidden all this time where is she Lucas repeated his voice Rising the man stepped closer his face finally becoming clearer he was older maybe in his 50s with deep lines etched into his weathered skin his eyes were dark and calculating the kind that had seen too much I'll tell you tell you where she is he said slowly but you're not going to like the answer Lucas clenched his fists at his sides his frustration mounting what the hell are

you talking about just tell me the man's lips curled into a slight humorless smile she's in the mountains he said she's been living there for years but she didn't just disappear on her own someone took her Hannah gasped and Lucas's eyes widened in shock took her he repeated his mind racing who why the man glanced around as if checking to make sure they were still alone your old business partner Conrad he said he's the one who took her Lucas felt the ground drop out from under him Conrad he repeated disbelief clear in his voice why

would Conrad take her the man's gaze sharpened he was jealous of you he said bluntly always has been you were the one with the vision the drive he resented your success and he thought taking Margaret would break you Lucas's hands clenched into fists his mind flashing back to the years he and Conrad had worked together they had built their company from the ground up but things had always been tense between them Conrad had been ambitious sure but he had never given any indication that he was capable of something like this kidnapping Margaret keeping her hidden

for years how do you know all this Lucas asked his voice low dangerous the man hesitated his eyes flicking to Hannah for a brief second before returning to Lucas because I was there he said almost reluctantly I worked for Conrad at the time I didn't know what he was planning until it was too late and when I realized what he had done I couldn't go to the police I Knew Too Much I had no choice but to disappear Lucas stared at him his mind spinning this man had been involved in the conspiracy to take Margaret

he had known where she was all these years why are you telling me this now Lucas demanded his voice shaking with Fury why didn't you come forward sooner the man's expression hardened because I didn't have a reason to he said flatly but now now I'm tired of running I've lived with this secret for too long and I'm ready to end it Lucas was about to say something when Hannah spoke up her voice trembling where is she she asked again stepping out from behind Lucas where is my mother the man looked at her his gaze softening

slightly she's in a cabin in the mountains he said I'll give you the location but you need to understand Margaret doesn't remember everything she's been through a lot thought Conrad kept her isolated for years she might not even recognize you at first Hannah's face paled but she nodded her determination unshaken I don't care she said firmly we need to see her Lucas took a step closer to the man his eyes burning with intensity if you're lying about this I swear I'm not lying the man interrupted his voice cold and steady I'm telling you the truth

go to the cabin you'll find her there Lucas stared at him for a long moment his mind racing there was so much to process so many emotions swirling inside him Margaret was alive she had been taken from him and now after all these years they were finally going to find her without another word the man handed Lucas a piece of paper with an address scrolled on it Lucas looked at the address then back at the man if this is real he said quietly I'll make sure Conrad pays for what he did the man didn't respond

he simply turned and walked away disappearing into the Shadows of the pier leaving Lucas and Hanah standing there in stunned silence Hannah looked up at Lucas her eyes wide with a mix of fear and hope we're really going to find her aren't we she whispered Lucas nodded his heart pounding in his chest yes he said his voice firm we're going to find her the next morning Lucas and Hannah set out for the mountains the drive was long the landscape gradually shifting from the bustling City to the rugged isolated Wilderness the cabin was far off the

beaten path hidden deep within the trees just as the man had said as they approached the cabin Lucas's stomach tightened with with nerves it was small almost hidden by the surrounding woods but it was exactly where the man said it would be Lucas parked the car and they stepped out the Silence of the mountains pressing in around them Hannah's breath caught in her throat as she stared at the cabin do you think she's really here she whispered Lucas didn't answer instead he walked to the front door and knocked his heart pounding with every second that

passed for a long moment there was nothing no sound no movement but then slowly the door creaked open and there she was Margaret she stood in the doorway her face pale and gaunt but unmistakably her Lucas's breath caught in his throat as he stared at her unable to speak Margaret's eyes flicked between Lucas and Hannah confusion clouding her expression for a moment no one moved then finally Margaret whispered Lucas for a moment time seemed to freeze Lucas stood there rooted to the spot staring at Margaret as if she were a ghost after all these years

he had imagined this moment in a thousand different ways but none of those imagined versions had prepared him for the reality of seeing her again she looked so different thinner with lines of exhaustion etched into her face her hair once vibrant was now Streed with gray and her eyes held a weariness that had never been there before but beneath all of that it was still her it was still the woman he had loved Margaret he finally managed to say his voice breaking slightly he took a step toward her his heart pounding it's really you Margaret

didn't move at first her eyes flicked between Lucas and Hannah confusion knitting her brow she looked at Hannah for a long moment something unreadable passing across her face who are you she asked softly her voice trembling Hannah swallowed hard her throat tight with emotion I'm I'm Hannah I'm your daughter the words hung in the air between them heavy with years of separation and lost time Margaret's face paled even more her hand gripping the door frame for support my daughter she whispered almost as if she couldn't believe it yes Hannah said her voice shaking you left

but you had me I've spent my whole life not knowing why but I'm here now and I need to know I need to know everything Margaret looked at her her eyes brimming with tears she reached out as if to touch Hannah's face but stopped short her hand trembling in the air I I didn't know she whispered her voice barely audible I didn't know how to find you Lucas Still Standing just behind Hannah couldn't take his eyes off Margaret he had so many questions but the sight of her fragile and clearly haunted by years of pain

kept him Frozen in place all he could do was wait letting the weight of the moment sink in Margaret slowly stepped aside motioning for them to come in the cabin was small just as they had expected barely furnished with a simple bed in the corner and a few chairs scattered around it was clear she had been living in isolation for a long time the air inside was cold and still the kind of Silence that only came from being alone for too long once inside Margaret gestured for them to sit Lucas and Hannah took seat at

the small table but Margaret remained standing her arms wrapped around herself as if she were trying to hold herself together I didn't mean for it to happen this way she said her voice trembling I wanted to come back I tried but I couldn't they wouldn't let me Lucas leaned forward his brow furrowed who who wouldn't let you Margaret closed her eyes for a moment taking a deep breath as if summoning the strength to speak when she opened them again she looked directly at Lucas Conrad she said her voice steady now it was Conrad he's the

reason I Disappeared Lucas's jaw clenched At The Mention of his former business partner I know he said quietly someone told me he took you but why why didn't you ever reach out why didn't you tell me Margaret lowered her gaze tears sliding down her cheeks he threatened me she said her voice barely above a whisper after I left that night after our fight I was confused hurt I didn't know what to do I needed space to think so I went to stay with a friend but Conrad found out he came to me told me that

if I ever tried to come back he'd destroy you he said he would ruin everything you'd worked for your business your reputation he knew things Lucas things that could have taken everything away from you Lucas felt his fists tighten at his sides that bastard he muttered under his breath his mind raced trying to comprehend the depth of Conrad's betrayal he had always known Conrad was ambitious but this to take Margaret away to hold her hostage with threats for years it was Unforgivable I didn't believe him at first Margaret continued her voice thick with emotion but

then he started showing up he would send me messages reminding me that he was always watching I was scared Lucas I didn't know what else to do I thought that by staying away I was protecting you Lucas stood up abruptly the chair scraping against the floor you should have told me he said his voice filled with anger and frustration we could have fought him together I would have protected you Margaret I would have done anything Margaret shook her head tears still falling I was trying to protect you she said softly I thought I was doing

the right thing but now now I see how wrong I was Hannah who had been silent up until now finally spoke up her voice breaking so all this time you were alive and you knew about me why didn't you come for me why did you let me grow up without you Margaret's face crumpled in sorrow I didn't know how she whispered her voice cracking I didn't know where you were after Conrad took me he kept me isolated he told me you were gone that it was too late I had no way of finding you Hannah's

eyes filled with tears and she shook her head unable to process the years of Abandonment and pain I needed you she said her voice trembling all this time I needed you Margaret took a hesitant step toward her her hands shaking I'm so sorry she said her voice thick with emotion I thought I was doing what was best but I was wrong I was so wrong Lucas watched The Exchange his heartbreaking for both of them he had always imagined a reunion where everything was explained where the pieces would fall into place and make sense but now

standing here he realized that nothing could erase the years of pain and separation they had all endured there were no easy answers no quick fixes but one thing was clear they had found Margaret she was alive and now they had a chance however small to rebuild what had been lost we can still make this right Lucas said his his voice steady but filled with determination we're together now and Conrad he's going to pay for what he did Margaret looked at him her eyes filled with fear Lucas he's dangerous if you go after him I don't

care Lucas interrupted his voice hard he took everything from us and now it's time he faces the consequences the drive back from the cabin was Heavy with silence Lucas's mind raced with thoughts of Conrad and the bet Trail he had never seen coming Margaret had been held captive all these years not physically but emotionally trapped by Conrad's threats and manipulation the thought of it made Lucas's blood boil he had to act he had to make sure Conrad paid for what he had done next to him Hannah sat quietly staring out of the window she had

been through so much in the past few days uncovering a past she never knew existed and reuniting with a mother she thought was lost forever but instead of feeling relief there was an undeniable sense of anger Building inside her how could her mother have let this happen how could she have let Conrad win I don't understand why she didn't fight harder Hannah said softly more to herself than to Lucas Lucas glanced at her his grip on the steering wheel tightening Margaret did what she thought was right she was scared Conrad had a lot of power

back then he knew things about me about the business that could have destroyed everything she was trying to protect us Hannah shook her head frustration evident on her face but what about me didn't she think about what it would be like for me to grow up without a mother didn't she care Lucas sighed his heart heavy he didn't have the answer she was looking for he knew Margaret had been in an impossible situation but he also understood Hannah's pain she cared Hannah I know she did but fear can make people do things they wouldn't normally

do it makes you think you're doing the right thing when in reality you're just running Hannah didn't respond her eyes focused on the road ahead she wanted to believe Lucas but the years of hurt were hard to let go of it was difficult to reconcile the image of her mother someone she had idolized in her absence with the it of what had happened but now more than anything Hannah wanted answers she wanted to understand why everything had fallen apart as they approached the city Lucas's phone buzzed in the center console he glanced at the screen

and his heart skipped a beat it was an unfamiliar number just like the call from the man who had sent them to the cabin Lucas hesitated for a moment then picked it up and answered answered Lucas Johnson he said his voice cautious Lucas the voice on the other end replied low and grally it was the same man from before you found her didn't you Lucas's jaw tightened yes I did and now I need to know everything why did Conrad do this why did he take her there was a brief silence on the other end before

the man spoke again it was n't just about jealousy there was more to it than that Lucas frowned gripping the phone tighter what are you talking about the man's voice dropped to a near whisper Conrad had a plan taking Margaret was just part of it but there's something you don't know something Margaret doesn't even know Lucas felt a chill run down his spine what are you saying Margaret was never supposed to stay gone forever the man continued Conrad didn't just want to ruin your life he wanted to take over everything your business your family and

the way he saw it the best way to do that was to make sure Margaret was out of the picture temporarily Lucas's heart raced what do you mean temporarily the man hesitated again before speaking Conrad didn't just take Margaret he planned to bring her back after he had gained enough power in the company after he had made sure there was no way you could fight him he was going to make her come back only this time she wouldn't be the same he'd break her down make her dependent on him she'd think you were the one

who abandoned her Lucas felt sick the idea that Conrad had orchestrated all of this that he had planned to manipulate not just him but also Margaret was almost too much to bear why Lucas demanded his voice Rising why would he go to such lengths the man's voice turned cold because he loved her Conrad was obsessed with Margaret he always was even when you two were together he couldn't stand the thought of her being with you so he set out to destroy you and take her for himself but when she got pregnant everything changed his plan

fell apart and he had to improvise that's when he made her disappear for good Lucas's mind reeled with the weight of the revelation Conrad had been in love with Margaret the whole time and everything the kidnapping the threats the years of separation had been part of some Twisted plan to make her his he's a monster Lucas muttered under his breath the man on the other end of the phone side you're not wrong but you need to be careful Conrad's dangerous and now that you're getting close to the truth he won't hesitate to stop you Lucas

clenched his teeth his anger Rising I I don't care he's going to pay for what he did to her to all of us there's more the man added his voice lowering Conrad isn't working alone he's got people in the company people you don't even know about who are helping him keep control if you're going after him you need to be smart you can't trust anyone Lucas's grip tightened on the steering wheel tell me everything I want to know exactly what we're dealing with the man hesitated One Last Time meet me tomorrow same place as before

I'll give you the full story but be careful Lucas Conrad's not going to let this go without a fight the call ended abruptly leaving Lucas staring at the phone his mind spinning he turned to Hannah who had been listening to his side of the conversation with growing concern what was that about she asked her voice filled with worry Lucas took a deep breath trying to calm the storm of emotions swirling inside him Conrad he said quietly it's worse than we thought he didn't just want to ruin me he wanted to take everything and now we're

getting close to the truth Hannah's eyes widened what are we going to do Lucas looked at her his expression hardening with determination we're going to finish this once and for all the next day came quickly and Lucas felt the weight of what was to come pressing heavily on him he and Hannah prepared to meet the mysterious informant again knowing that this time the stakes were even higher Conrad had gone to unimaginable lengths to destroy their lives but now Lucas had the chance to take everything back as they drove to the meeting point Lucas couldn't help

but think about Margaret she was safe now back in the cabin but the scars of what had happened would never fully heal he owed it to her and to Hannah to end this nightmare and make Conrad pay for what he had done when they arrived at the pier the air was thick with anticipation the same grally voiced man stood waiting for them in the shadows his posture tense Lucas and Hannah approached cautiously ready for whatever came next but as they stepped closer a sudden realization hit Lucas like a punch to the gut something was wrong

the man's expression wasn't just tense it was terrified you're too late the man said his voice trembling Conrad knows he's coming for you Lucas's pulse quickened as the man's words sunk in Conrad knows he had said his voice trembling with fear Hannah gripped Lucas's arm her eyes wide with anxiety for a moment neither of them moved their minds racing to process the implication ifrad knew they were close to uncovering the truth it meant only one thing they were in real danger Lucas straightened his body tense and ready for action what do you mean he's coming

for us he demanded his voice sharp the man stepped back slightly casting a nervous glance over his shoulder Conrad has eyes everywhere he said in a low voice I thought I could get you the information before he figured it out but he's ahead of us he knows you found Margaret he knows you're looking for answers and now he's moving fast if you don't act now he'll make sure you disappear just like he did with Margaret Lucas's fists clenched at his sides anger Rising inside him like a wave he had waited too long for this moment

too long to see Justice served Conrad had stolen everything from him his future his family and now he was threatening to take even more where is he Lucas asked his voice hard as steel where is Conrad the man hesitated his eyes darting between Lucas and Hannah I don't know exactly he's been keeping a low profile ever since you started poking around but if I had to guess he's at the estate that's where he's always had his most loyal people they'll protect him it's like a fortress Lucas's jaw tightened the estate of course Conrad had always

always used that place as a symbol of his power his wealth but now it was more than that it was a hiding place a sanctuary where he could continue his schemes without fear of being caught but Lucas wasn't going to let him get away this time we're going to the estate Lucas said his tone leaving no room for argument Hannah's grip tightened on his arm are you sure what if it's a trap Lucas met her gaze his expression s softening slightly he knew the risks he knew that confronting Conrad on his own turf was dangerous

but he had no choice we don't have a choice in Hannah he said quietly heun not going to stop until we make him if we don't end this now he'll come after us after you after Margaret Hannah swallowed hard her fear evident but she nodded she knew Lucas was right Conrad wasn't just a threat they were Running Out of Time the man handed Lucas a set of coordinates and a key card this will get you through the outer Gates but once you're inside you're on your own Conrad has guards they'll be armed Lucas took the

key card his face set in Grim determination we'll be ready the drive to the estate was tense and Silent the weight of what was to come hanging heavily in the air Lucas kept his focus on the road but his mind was racing with a thousand possib abilities what would he find when they got there how many people would Conrad have waiting for them and most importantly how was he going to protect Hannah in the middle of what was sure to be a dangerous confrontation Hannah sat beside him her hands clenched tightly in her lap she

was scared more scared than she had ever been in her life but she refused to show it she had spent so many years wondering about her past Longing For answers and now that she was on the brink of discovering the full truth she wasn't about to back down she had to see this through no matter what as they approached the estate Lucas slowed the car his eyes scanning the massive Gates that loomed ahead it was a sprawling property surrounded by high walls and thick trees designed to keep Intruders out and secrets in the security was

tight but Lucas had the key card he pulled up to the gate swiped the card and waited as the gate slowly creaked open this is it Lucas muttered his eyes narrowing he drove through the gates his heart pounding with adrenaline the estate stretched out before them a vast expanse of manicured Lawns and towering trees with the main house looming in the distance like a fortress it was eerily quiet too quiet and Lucas could feel the tension building with every step they took closer to the house as as they parked and stepped out of the car

Lucas turned to Hannah his expression serious stay close to me no matter what happens don't leave my side Hannah nodded her fear barely contained she followed him as they made their way toward the entrance of the house their footsteps echoing in the silence the front door was locked but Lucas wasn't surprised he knew Conrad would have the place locked down he glanced around looking for another way in and spotted a side door leading to the servants quarters he motioned for Hannah to follow and they slipped through the side entrance entering the dark quiet hallway they

moved through the house cautiously the tension growing with every step the air was thick with the sense that something was about to happen and Lucas's instincts were on high alert he knew Conrad was here somewhere watching them waiting as they reached the main foyer they heard a noise footsteps Lucas froze motioning for Hannah to stay behind him the sound grew louder closer until a figure appeared at the top of the grand staircase it was Conrad he stood there looking down at them with a smug smile on his face as if he had been expecting them

all along his eyes were cold calculating and Lucas could feel the weight of his presence like a dark cloud well well Conrad said his voice smooth and taunting I have to admit Lucas I didn't think you'd come this far but I suppose I underestimated your stubbornness Lucas's jaw clenched his anger simmering just below the surface it's over Conrad we know everything you can't hide anymore Conrad chuckled taking a slow step down the stairs hide oh Lucas I think you're mistaken I'm not hiding I'm right here exactly where I've always been and you well you're just

as predictable as ever always so quick to charge in without thinking Lucas took a step forward his fists clenched you ruined my life Conrad you took Margaret from me you kept her hidden for years manipulating her threatening her and for what because you were jealous because you wanted to take everything I had Conrad smile faltered slightly but he quickly recovered his eyes gleaming with malice jealous oh Lucas you really don't understand do you this was never about jealousy this was about power control you had something I wanted and I took it simple as that Hannah

stepped forward her voice shaking with anger you didn't just take him you took my mother you destroyed our family Conrad's gaze shifted to Hannah and for a brief moment his expression softened ah the the daughter I wondered when you'd show up you know Hannah your mother never stopped thinking about you even when she was with me Lucas felt a surge of Rage shut up he growled you have no right to talk about her Conrad's smile widened oh but I do Lucas because I'm the one who's still in control here you see I've got people watching

waiting for my signal one wrong move and everything you can about will be gone just like that Lucas stared at him his mind racing Conrad had always been two steps ahead always one move away from total Destruction but Lucas wasn't going to let him win this time you're wrong Conrad Lucas said his voice steady this time you're the one who's lost Lucas's words hung in the air a challenge that cut through the tension like a blade Conrad stood Frozen for a moment his smug smile faltering as he took in Lucas's defiant stance the weight of

years of manipulation deception and destruction pressed down on the room but for the first time Conrad's control seemed to waver you think you've won Lucas Conrad sneered taking another step down the staircase you think you can walk into my house throw around accusations and everything will magically fall into place Lucas didn't Flinch his eyes locked on Conrad I don't think I've won I know I have your game is over behind him Hannah stood tense her heart pounding in her chest she could feel the energy in the room shift something was about to break her father

had faced down Conrad exposed the lies that had kept their family apart for so long and yet standing there in the cold Grand foyer of the estate the stakes felt higher than ever Conrad's lips twisted into a bitter smile you don't get it do you he said his voice dripping with malice this was never just about taking Margaret from you this was about making sure you would never have anything I wanted to watch you fall apart piece by piece while I stood by and took everything Lucas's fists tightened at his sides the rage he'd held

back for so long now dangerously close to boiling over you took everything from me he growled you kept Margaret away from her family you made her live in fear you stole years from us years will never get back Conrad's eyes gleamed with a twisted satisfaction and i' do it all again he said because I enjoyed watching you suffer knowing there was nothing you could do to stop me Lucas took a step forward but Hannah quickly moved to stand beside him placing a hand on his arm she could feel the anger radiating from him and she

knew that Conrad was trying to provoke him to push him over the edge don't Hannah whispered urgently he's not worth it Conrad's eyes flickered to Hannah his expression shifting slightly as he regarded her you know Hannah you're more like me than you realize strong determined I bet if things had gone differently you would have been proud to call me a mentor Hannah recoiled her face contorting in disgust you're nothing like me she spat I'll never be anything like you Conrad's smile wavered but he quickly recovered shrugging nonchalantly suit yourself he said but remember no matter

what you think no matter how hard you try you'll never undo what's been done your family will always carry the scars I left behind Lucas couldn't take it anymore he stepped forward his voice low and filled with Menace this is your last chance Conrad walk away now and maybe you'll get out of this with something but if you keep pushing you'll lose everything Conrad's laugh echoed through the room cold and Hollow you don't scare me Lucas you never did but just as the words left his mouth the sound of footsteps echoed from the back of

the house Lucas and Hannah both turned toward the noise their bodies tensing in anticipation Conrad's expression changed he looked suddenly uneasy the footsteps grew louder and then from the Shadows a group of men appeared they were dressed in black clearly armed and their faces were set in hard determined lines they marched forward with Precision stopping a few feet behind Conrad Lucas's heart sank this was Conrad's final play his last ditch effort to maintain control he had called in reinforcements hired muscle to intimidate them to end this confrontation on his terms I told you Lucas Conrad

said smugly you'll never win I always have the upper hand Hannah's breath hitched in her throat as she looked at the men standing behind Conrad this was bad worse than she had imagined they were outnumbered and Conrad was clearly ready to escalate things she glanced at Lucas searching his face for some kind of plan but then something happened that none of them had expected the leader of the group a tall man with a scar across his cheek stepped forward he eyed Conrad with disdain before speaking in a low commanding voice you're done Conrad Conrad blinked

his face twisting in confusion what the man crossed his arms his expression unre we've been watching you for a long time waiting for you to slip up and now that you have it's over Conrad's eyes widened in shock what are you talking about I hired you the man shook his head not anymore you're under arrest before Conrad could react two of the men stepped forward pulling his arms behind his back and slapping handcuffs on his wrists Conrad struggled his face turning red with r and disbelief what is this he shouted you can't do this I'm

in control here but the men ignored him dragging him down the stairs as he continued to yell this isn't over Lucas Conrad screamed his voice echoing through the hall I'll destroy you I'll destroy everything you love Lucas Stood Still his chest heaving with adrenaline as he watched Conrad being taken away Hannah's hand tightened on his arm and she looked up at him with wide eyes what just happened she whispered Lucas exhaled slowly his body finally relaxing as the weight of everything began to lift I don't know he admitted but it looks like someone's been keeping

an eye on Conrad the leader of the group turned to face Lucas and Hannah his expression calm and professional we've been investigating Conrad for a long time he explained he's been involved in illegal activity for years blackmail extortion you name it we've had enough evidence to take him down but we needed to catch him in the ACT your investigation into Margaret's disappearance was the final piece we needed Hannah's mouth fell open in shock so you knew the man nodded we've been monitoring him closely when we saw that he was making moves against you and your

family we knew it was time to act Lucas felt a rush of relief flood through him after all these years after everything Conrad had done Justice was finally being served the monster that had torn his life apart was finally being held accountable thank you Lucas said his voice filled with gratitude the man nodded once more we'll make sure Conrad never hurts anyone again with that the group escorted Conrad out of the house his shouts of anger Fading Into the distance Lucas and Hannah stood there in stunned silence for a long moment the reality of what

had just happened slowly sinking in it's over Hannah whispered her voice trembling with emotion it's really over Lucas turned to her a mixture of relief and sadness in his eyes yeah he said softly it's over the days that followed Conrad's arrest felt surreal for so long Lucas had lived under the weight of what Conrad had done the constant shadow of betray betrayal and loss hanging over him now with Conrad finally gone that shadow had lifted but even with Conrad out of their lives there was still a sense of unresolved emotion lingering in the air particularly

for Margaret who had been through so much and for Hannah who was still trying to process the reunion with her mother Lucas stood on the balcony of his home staring out at the city skyline as the early morning light began to filter through the buildings he hadn't slept much in the days since Conrad's downfall his mind constantly racing with everything that had happened he thought of Margaret safe now but still healing from the years of manipulation he thought of Hannah who had been through so much more than any daughter should have to endure and then

there was the future for the first time in years Lucas allowed himself to think about what came next the chaos had ended but rebuilding their lives wouldn't be easy as he stood there lost in thought he heard footsteps approaching behind him turning he saw Hannah standing in the doorway wrapped in a sweater to Shield herself from the crisp morning air hey she said softly stepping onto the balcony beside him hey Lucas replied offering her a small smile how are you feeling Hannah Shrugged leaning against the railing and looking out at the Horizon I don't know

she admitted it still doesn't feel real you know everything happens so fast Lucas nodded yeah it's a lot to take in they stood in silence for a while the quiet between them comfortable but heavy with unspoken emotions finally Hannah turned to face him her brow furrowed slightly what happens now she asked her voice soft but filled with uncertainty Lucas took a deep breath trying to find the right words we move forward he said we take things one step at a time we have a lot of healing to do especially your mom but we're together now

that's what matters Hannah looked down at her hands her expression troubled do you think she'll ever be okay after everything Lucas sighed leaning his elbows on the railing as he looked out over the city I think it's going to take time he said honestly she's been through a lot but she's strong and she has us we'll help her through it Hannah nodded though she still looked uncertain I just I don't know how to feel about her I spent my whole life wondering about her missing her and now that she's back it's like I don't know

who she is anymore Lucas understood he had felt the same way in many ways the Margaret they had found wasn't the same woman who had left all those years ago she had been changed by her experiences molded by the fear and isolation Conrad had inflicted on her but beneath all of that she was still Margaret the woman he had loved it's going to take time to get to know her again Lucas said gently but I believe that underneath everything she's still the same person she's still your mom and I know she loves you Hannah's eyes

filled with tears but she quickly wiped them away I just wish she had come back sooner I wish she had fought harder Lucas placed a comforting hand on her shoulder we can't change the past he said softly but we can decide what to do with the future and I think given the chance she'll fight for you now she's here that's what matters Hannah nodded her gaze softening you're right she said quietly it's just hard to let go of all the years we lost Lucas didn't have an answer for that he knew the pain of lost

time all too well but he also knew that dwelling on the past wouldn't help them move forward they had been given a second chance a chance to rebuild to heal to find some semblance of peace and that was what they needed to focus on now later that afternoon Lucas and Hannah drove out to the cabin to visit Margaret she had been staying there ever since Conrad's arrest taking the time she needed to recover emotionally and physically from everything she had endured it was a quiet place peaceful and removed from the chaos of the city and

Lucas thought it was exactly what she needed as they approached the cabin Lucas noticed how much calmer Margaret seemed she was still fragile still carrying the weight of the past but there was a lightness to her that hadn't been there before Margaret greeted them at the door her face softening into a small smile when she saw them I'm Glad You Came she said her voice quieter than it had been in the past Hannah offered a hesitant smile in return though Lucas could sense the nervousness still lingering beneath the surface this was still new for both

of them trying to rebuild their relationship after so many years of separation they sat together in the small living room the atmosphere light but slightly awkward conversation flowed slowly at first but after a while they began to talk more freely Margaret opened up about her time in hiding sharing the small moments of hope she had clung to over the years she spoke of the guilt she had felt for not coming back sooner and how Conrad had manipulated her into believing she was doing the right thing by staying away I didn't know what else to do

Margaret admitted her voice thick with emotion I thought I was protecting you both both but I see now that I was just running and I'm so sorry for that Hannah reached out placing her hand on Margaret's I understand she said softly I don't blame you I just I'm glad you're here now Margaret's eyes filled with tears and she squeezed Hannah's hand tightly I'm going to make it up to you she whispered I promise I'm going to be the mother you deserve Lucas watched The Exchange his heart swelling with a mixture of Pride and relief for

the first time in a long time he felt hopeful they had been through hell but they were finally coming out on the other side as the sun began to set casting a Golden Glow over the cabin Lucas stood by the window watching the light dance across the trees he had spent so many years focused on the past on what he had lost but now standing here with the two people who mattered most to him he realized that the future was What mattered now Margaret and Hannah were here they were together and they had a chance

to start again A New Beginning