Chapter 407

Before Myra lay a map marking specific coordinates based on constellations observed on a remote island. The celestial alignment lent the map an air of mystery.

“W-What is this?” Myra stammered.

“A treasure map!” Dexter lowered his voice, his tone brimming with barely concealed excitement. The legend of this treasure map had circulated for years. It spoke of an island holding a treasure capable of changing the world—a treasure of immense wealth and power, available to whomever found it.

Countless people had searched for this treasure, setting sail only to return empty-handed. But now, the map was within their grasp, its coordinates pinpointing the island! Who could resist such temptation?

This was precisely why Dexter had risked offending Stephan and hidden the map—to claim the treasure for himself. The temptation proved too great.

Myra was skeptical. “Did you send someone to verify the coordinates? Does such an island even exist? Is there really a treasure?”

Dexter sighed. “I sent men to investigate months ago—four, to be exact—but none returned.”

“How could that happen?” Myra was shocked.

“Two possibilities,” Dexter explained. “They either reached the coordinates, found something valuable, and absconded with it, or something happened before they even reached the island.”

“Afterward, I feared attracting attention, so I sent no one else. I don’t know what’s on that island. But if even Stephan seeks it, it must be extraordinary!”

Dexter’s tone was resolute, and Myra found herself agreeing. If Stephan had invested so much effort and resources, the map’s value must be immense. Yet, regardless of its worth, it was not something they could afford to covet.

Myra wanted to rid themselves of the map immediately. “We’ll hand this over first thing tomorrow to avoid trouble.”

“Alright,” Dexter nodded, about to comfort his wife when the bedroom door burst open, startling the couple.

Dexter quickly shoved the map under the blanket and grabbed a nearby lamp, intending to use it as a weapon.

The intruder was Kayla.

Dexter breathed a sigh of relief. He replaced the lamp and wiped his brow. “Couldn’t you knock? Why aren’t you asleep?”

Myra also relaxed.

Kayla stepped forward. “Dad, Mom, you mustn’t hand over the map!”

The couple exchanged a startled look. Had she overheard them?

Kayla had followed them and listened at the door. She had heard everything! The shock and excitement were overwhelming. This map was a godsend!

“Mom, Dad, this map is a perfect bargaining chip! We can accomplish so much more with it. We absolutely cannot hand it over!” Kayla insisted.

“And what do you propose?” Myra asked.