Chapter 6 - The Waterproof Pouch
Every eye remained fixed on the muddy waterproof pouch resting in Captain Elias Reed's weathered hands. It was surprisingly heavy for its size, its thick leather straps hardened by years beneath the lake. Water dripped steadily onto the dock as Elias carefully wiped away layers of mud with his sleeve.
The tallest bully forced a laugh.
"So that's what this is all about? Some old bag?"
Elias ignored him.
The retired park ranger stepped closer, his breathing uneven.
"I buried... no, we hid something like that years ago."
"You remember," Elias replied quietly.
The ranger nodded.
"I never thought anyone would find it again."
Curiosity quickly spread among the growing crowd. More fishermen left their boats. Families walking along the shoreline stopped to watch. Even tourists lifted their phones, sensing something unusual unfolding before them.
One of the younger bullies whispered nervously, "Let's leave."
The tallest one glared at him.
"We're not running from an old fisherman."
Without warning, he lunged toward the pouch.
Elias simply shifted sideways.
The bully grabbed nothing but air.
His momentum carried him past the old man until he nearly stumbled into the lake.
Several people laughed.
Humiliated again, he spun around furiously.
"What is inside that bag?"
Elias finally met his eyes.
May you like
"The truth."
Those two words silenced everyone.
