Melissa's hands trembled as she sifted through the documents. The revelation Alex had made was overwhelming. Her parents, who she always thought were ordinary people, were involved in something dark and mysterious that had brought them immense wealth. But that wealth had come at a terrible cost.

"Your parents," Alex began, his voice heavy, "were part of something shady. They were trying to protect you from something powerful and dangerous. But when they tried to leave and turn themselves in, they were betrayed."

Melissa's heart pounded in her chest. "Betrayed? By who?"

Alex's eyes were filled with sorrow as he answered, "By your Auntie, Mrs. White."

Melissa felt like the...