Chapter 10 - The Hidden Journal
Leo looked around the tiny, dimly lit apartment.
Scattered across the living room table were dozens of old files, legal papers, and medical reports.
In the center sat a black leather-bound journal bearing Julian’s distinct handwriting.
"Julian came to me the night he disappeared," Maya explained, her voice trembling. "He knew Marcus’s father was running an illegal bribery ring and using the school to launder money."
"Julian tried to stop them?" Leo asked softly, approaching the table.
"He tried to expose them," Maya corrected him. "That’s why Marcus hit me with his car three years ago—it wasn't an accident, Leo! It was a warning to Julian!"
Leo felt his whole world crumble around him.
His best friend hadn't just committed a hit-and-run; he had targeted an innocent girl in cold blood.
"And where is Julian now?" Leo asked, his voice cracking.
May you like
Maya looked down at the floor, silent for a long moment.
"He’s in hiding... because he thinks you betrayed him to Marcus," she whispered.
