Chapter 2: The Coffin Opens
Chapter 2: The Coffin Opens
Emily pulled against Richard's grip with all her strength.
"Let me see my father!"
Richard's voice rose in panic.
"The funeral is over!"
"The casket must remain closed."
His desperation only fueled her suspicion.
Emily looked toward the funeral director.
"Open it."
The man hesitated.
"I... I need the family's permission."
Emily's eyes never left Richard.
"I am his daughter."
"And if you refuse, I'll call the police right now."
The room fell silent.
Several guests exchanged uneasy glances.
Richard took one step backward.
That was all Emily needed.
She rushed forward and threw open the casket.
Gasps echoed through the chapel.
Her father lay perfectly still in an expensive black suit.
But then...
She noticed it.
A faint movement beneath the silk blanket.
His fingers.
They twitched.
"Dad!"
She grabbed his hand.
It was warm.
Not cold.
Not lifeless.
Warm.
"He's alive!"
Chaos erupted.
Someone called emergency services.
A doctor attending the funeral rushed forward.
He tore open the jacket and placed two fingers against the millionaire's neck.
A heartbeat.
May you like
Weak...
But unmistakable.
