CHAPTER 2: THE SECRET IN THE LOCKET
Julian didn’t leave her side.
Not even when the event coordinator nervously approached, whispering that guests were waiting for his speech. Not even when Clara tried to step back, her hands trembling.
“Where did you get that?” Julian asked suddenly.
His eyes had locked onto something hanging at her neck.
Clara instinctively covered it—a small silver locket, worn and slightly scratched.
“It’s mine,” she said, her voice defensive.
Julian’s tone hardened. “Open it.”
“I—I can’t.”
“Open it.”
Something in his voice—authority mixed with desperation—made her obey.
Her fingers shook as she unclasped it.
Inside were two tiny photos: one of a young woman Clara had never known—her mother—and the other… a man.
Julian inhaled sharply.
“That picture…” he whispered.
Clara frowned. “You know him?”
Julian didn’t answer immediately. Instead, he reached into his jacket and pulled out his phone. A few quick taps—and then he turned the screen toward her.
It was the same man.
Only older.
And standing beside Julian.
May you like
“My father,” Julian said quietly.
Clara’s world collapsed into a single, impossible realization.
