Chapter 24 - The Second Secret
A week after the trial concluded, Rafe invited Ruth into his private study. Through intensive physical therapy, he was now able to walk steady steps with a cane, no longer relying on a wheelchair.
"Ruth, there is one question I must ask you," Rafe began, his thoughtful eyes locked onto her. "That night at the hospital, when Olivia handed you the memory card... did she say anything else?"
Ruth hesitated for a moment. She reached into her apron pocket and produced a small, yellowed envelope. "Mrs. Olivia didn't just give me the audio recording. She gave me this letter and instructed me to open it only after Camille was brought to justice."
Rafe’s hands trembled as he took the envelope. Unfolding the delicate handwriting of his late wife, tears blurred his vision as he read the words:
"My beloved Rafe,
May you like
If you are reading this, it means I am no longer there to walk beside you and our child. But I am not afraid, because I know I have placed Maisie in the hands of the most trustworthy soul. Ruth is no random caregiver. She is the daughter of the head nurse who saved my life years ago. I personally asked her to come to you and our baby..."
Rafe looked up at Ruth in utter astonishment. The revelation shook him to his core.
