Suddenly, everyone’s eyes turned upward, drawn to a butterfly dancing in the air. It circled around Austen, its shimmering wings catching the light, before landing on the black-and-white photo of Earl Poulos on the tombstone. In the photo, Earl Poulos’ expression was serene and kind, as though he were watching over everyone.

Austen’s hand quivered as he reached toward the butterfly, almost believing he could feel his father’s essence in its delicate form. However, his movement startled the butterfly, and it took off, landing softly on Austen’s chest, right over his heart. It was an unexpected moment, especially at a funeral.

It almost seemed as if Earl Poulos were responding to Austen’s deep-seated remorse and grief, manifesting in this delicate creature to offer some measure of solace. At times, when logic and science fail to explain life’s mysteries, it is love that fills those gaps.

Tears filled the butler’s eyes once more as he approached Austen and gently placed a hand on his shoulder. “Your father loved you more than anything. He would never blame you. More than anything, he wished for just a little more time—to see you, to be with you.”

Austen gripped the butterfly against his chest, his tears flowing freely as he was overwhelmed with sorrow.

Katelyn and the others stayed with Austen, offering silent support through the evening until they eventually returned to their hotel. Yet, the weight of the day’s emotions cast a shadow over them, dampening their spirits. Even Jaxen, who could usually be counted on to crack a joke, remained quiet, lost in thought.

“Death is part of the circle of life,” Katelyn whispered, his tone unusually gentle. “Yet, no matter how prepared we think we are, its arrival always feels sudden and overwhelming.”

Katelyn let out a heavy sigh, his gaze somber as he reflected on his own words. “We must treasure the time with our loved ones while we can. You never know what might come first—another day or an unexpected end.”

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It was a harsh reality. Accidents were common worldwide, often claiming the lives of even the young and fit without warning. Their only option was to savor each sunrise and cling to their cherished ones.

As she spoke, Vincent looked at Katelyn with a mix of emotions in his eyes, hard to decipher. He seemed on the verge of saying something, yet chose to remain silent.

“It’s getting late,” Vincent finally said, glancing around at the group. “We’re all worn out. It’s time to get some sleep.”

“Yeah, that sounds right,” Katelyn replied, though she didn’t feel the weight of exhaustion that others did.

Despite the tiring day, Katelyn lay wide awake in her bed, troubled. The final moments of Earl Poulos’ life haunted her, leaving her with a sense that something crucial had been left unspoken, some issue unresolved. Then there was the mystery of the will, which continued to perplex her.

After a restless few hours of sleep, Katelyn rose early the next morning, determined to find Addison. She made her way to his office, her face set, and handed him the will she had received. Her voice was firm as she spoke.

“I cannot accept the inheritance that Earl Poulos left for me. It should go to Austen. Please, return it to him.”

Addison adjusted his glasses, his expression grave as he replied, “Are you sure about this? Earl Poulos’ wealth is immense, and it could easily make you one of the richest women in the world. This fortune could change your life.”

The inheritance was undeniably enormous, tempting enough for most to accept without hesitation. Yet, it was more than just money; it was a deliberate choice made by Earl Poulos to pass it on. With unwavering eyes, Katelyn reaffirmed her decision.

“I will not take what does not belong to me.”

Addison, visibly conflicted, accepted the will from her and nodded. “Alright. I will let Austen know your decision.”

Just as he was about to file the documents, the office door swung open, and another figure entered.

It was Austen.

Dressed in black, his somber appearance was marked by two black mourning bands around his sleeves — twice the usual number.

Katelyn frowned slightly, puzzled.

In their tradition, a single black band was worn to denote mourning for a family member’s passing. Why, then, was Austen wearing two? Could there have been another tragedy?

Austen approached the desk, holding his own copy of the will. Though he appeared composed, his eyes held a deep sadness. He had overheard Katelyn speaking with Addison.

“I don’t want the inheritance either,” Austen said softly, placing his will on Addison’s desk. “I came here today to have my share transferred to Katelyn.”

Katelyn, taken aback, responded, “But this is yours by right. Earl Poulos left it to you. He intended for you to use it to create the life you want.”

Austen’s tone was firm, but his eyes conveyed deep sorrow as he replied, “The money doesn’t matter to me. If I could bring him back, I’d give up every cent.”

His grief was less visible than the day before, but it was clear that the pain still lingered within him. ? ?s? ?s FindN0vel.net

Addison, caught between two people turning down an immense fortune, was left speechless in this unprecedented situation.

Austen then turned to Katelyn, his voice taking on a more serious tone. “There’s something else you need to know.” The gravity in his voice sent a shiver down Katelyn’s spine, and she felt an ominous sense of dread wash over her.

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