Chapter 22 - An Unexpected Visitor
Before anyone could discuss the grave further, the front gate alarm sounded.
One of Michael's security officers entered.
"There's a visitor."
"Name?"
"He refuses to give one."
Michael walked outside.
Standing alone at the gate was an elderly priest wearing a rain-soaked black coat.
He carried no umbrella.
Only a worn leather satchel.
"I've come for Margaret Collins."
Michael remained cautious.
"Why?"
The priest reached into the satchel and produced a small wooden cross.
Margaret gasped the moment she saw it.
Richard had carved it himself.
Forty years earlier.
The priest looked directly at her.
"Mrs. Collins."
"I'm sorry it took me this long."
Margaret slowly approached.
"I know you."
The priest smiled sadly.
"You knew me as Father Benjamin."
Edward frowned.
"I thought Father Benjamin died years ago."
"He allowed the world to believe that."
Michael immediately noticed the similarity.
Just like Richard.
Just like Thomas.
Too many people connected to Richard Collins had officially disappeared without actually dying.
Father Benjamin removed another envelope from his satchel.
"This was entrusted to me."
"When?"
"The night before Richard passed away."
Margaret accepted it with trembling hands.
Before opening it, she asked quietly,
"Why now?"
The priest looked toward the dark road.
"Because Elias has finally returned."
At that exact moment...
A sniper's laser briefly appeared across Father Benjamin's chest.
Michael shouted,
May you like
"Down!"
A suppressed gunshot echoed through the rain.
