Chapter 53

News spread rapidly on Twitter that Richard, a teacher missing for ten years, had been murdered and buried on school grounds by Kennard, the Elmwood bully. Within two days, the story dominated headlines across Eldoria. Reporters swarmed the Elmwood Police Department and Elmwood High School. The police subsequently held a press conference, announcing Kennard's arrest and presenting evidence of his guilt. They also revealed plans to excavate Richard's body from the school's sports field.

Two days later, the sports field was closed to the public while the excavation commenced. Richard's body was recovered that same day, prompting another press conference and the arrest of additional suspects. The ten-year-old cold case was finally solved. Kennard and his accomplices—Brooke and others—were arrested and prosecuted. Kennard received the death penalty; his gang members received various prison sentences for murder, bullying, assault, and other crimes. Elmwood celebrated the removal of these bullies from their community.

That same day, Sophia and her husband, Harlan, shared a celebratory lunch at the Evermore Diner. Sophia prepared a lavish meal, surprising her son, Gilmore, and daughter, Everly.

Everly asked, "Mom, what's the occasion? Why is there so much food?"

Sophia smiled, "It's worth celebrating! Kennard and Brooke are arrested. We're finally free from those bullies!" She added, reassuring Everly, "Don't worry, they won't bother you anymore. You can focus on your studies now."

Everly nodded. Gilmore, his sister, parents, and Gerald enjoyed the meal, toasting and laughing. As they ate, a car arrived, and Robin entered, carrying a briefcase.

Gilmore greeted him warmly, "Robin, you came at the right time! Join us!"

Robin smiled, "Since you're celebrating, I'll join the fun!"

Sophia provided Robin with a place at the table and extra tableware, relieved to have extra help finishing the abundant food.

Robin, after joining the meal, said, "Gilmore, before we fully indulge, I have something important to tell you." Everyone's expressions turned serious.

Gilmore urged, "Robin, what is it? Tell us!"

Robin opened his briefcase, revealing a large envelope containing what appeared to be two rectangular objects. He placed it on the table before Gilmore, explaining, "Gilmore, the truth about Richard's death was largely uncovered thanks to the clues you provided. This envelope contains the 40,000 reward offered by the police ten years ago. The police superintendent and my father intended to give it to you personally, but the case's magnitude and impact made that impossible. They feared drawing unwanted attention to you. To protect your privacy, my father asked me to deliver it."

Sophia and Harlan were overjoyed to learn that Gilmore’s clues had solved the case and that he was receiving the reward. They were immensely proud. Although Gilmore didn't need the money, he deserved the reward for providing the crucial information.

"Okay, I'll accept the reward," Gilmore said, handing the envelope to his mother. "Mom, this money is for you."

Sophia, deeply touched, hesitated before Harlan encouraged her to accept it. She finally took the envelope, saying, "I'll save this for you to use when you get married."

Robin and Gerald heartily agreed. The meal continued in high spirits.

After lunch, Gilmore saw Robin off. Before leaving, Robin asked, "Gilmore, do you know Lilian is back?"

Gilmore, instead of answering directly, asked, "So what if Lilian returned?"

Robin replied, "Gilmore, you don't need to hide things from me. I know you like Lilian, and she likes you. Ian Thompson booked a private room at the Milky Way Hotel tonight. He's invited Lilian and some classmates, including me. Don't you want to see her?"

Gilmore knew Ian Thompson, their high school class monitor, the son of a wealthy man, who had always pursued Lilian relentlessly. He suspected Ian's return coincided with Lilian's.

Gilmore admitted, "I'm afraid I wouldn't be welcome."

Robin reassured him, "Don't worry. Ian invited all our old classmates, some traveling from afar, to make sure everyone knows he's having dinner with Lilian. He even asked me to round everyone up. But I worry you might feel uncomfortable seeing Ian and Lilian together."

Gilmore smiled faintly. "Robin, don't worry. I'll be there."

Robin, relieved, stated, "The dinner is at 8 o'clock tonight." He was happy Gilmore would attend.