Chapter 3: The Book of Secrets
Catherine's hands trembled as she opened the leather-bound book, revealing yellowed pages filled with handwritten notes and strange symbols. Ava's curiosity grew as she leaned in to examine the book more closely.
"This is our family's history, Ava," Catherine said, her voice barely above a whisper. "A history of power, wealth, and... sacrifice." Ava's eyes widened as she read the words "The Price of Prosperity" etched on the first page.
Suddenly, the door burst open, and Ava's father, Julian, stood in the doorway, his face stern. "Catherine, what are you doing?" he demanded, his eyes fixed on the book. Catherine's expression turned defiant, and she stood up straight, her eyes flashing with determination.
"Julian, she needs to know," Catherine said, her voice firm. "She's carrying the next..."
Julian's gaze cut to Ava, and he took a step forward, his eyes warning Catherine to stop. But Ava's mind was racing. What did her family have to hide? And what did it have to do with her unborn child?