The sound of the wind roared louder than my own scream. The door of the private jet hung wide open, and the clouds rushed past me like angry spirits. My golden dress flapped wildly in the wind, and my braids whipped across my face. My mother’s cold eyes stared straight into mine as her right leg pushed against my stomach.

“Sign the papers, Rachel,” she shouted above the noise. “Sign them and I’ll pull you back in.” Tears streamed down my face. No, mother. I won’t give you what belongs to dad. He trusted me. Her diamond earrings sparkled as she gave one last angry push. I lost balance. The world turned upside down.

My scream echoed as I fell backward into the open sky, my necklace flying away with me. The jet grew smaller and smaller above me. The last thing I saw before everything turned white was her face. No regret, just greed. Then everything went silent. Let people say when your life flashes before your eyes, you remember the moments that shaped you.

For me, it wasn’t just my life I saw. It was the story of how I ended up hanging between heaven and earth because of the woman who gave me life. It all started 3 months earlier. I was 24 years old, fresh from university, and my father’s only child. My father, Richard Collins, was one of the most successful businessmen in Africa. He owned hotels, oil companies, and even private islands.

But above all, he was a kind man who always said, “Rachel, never let money rule your heart. People who worship money forget their soul.” My mother, on the other hand, loved wealth more than anything. She was beautiful, elegant, and always wore gold from head to toe.

But behind her sweet smile was a woman who could turn the sun into ice if it meant getting what she wanted. When my father was alive, they fought almost every night. I remember him saying one night, “Gloria, you’ve changed. This money has poisoned your heart.” And she replied, “Don’t blame me, Richard. You made me taste luxury. Now you want me to forget it.

” Two weeks later, my father fell mysteriously ill. He became weak overnight and within a month he was gone. That day still burns in my heart. The house was filled with mourers. Yet my mother sat silently, her eyes hidden behind dark sunglasses. No tears, no emotion, just silence.

After the burial, the lawyer invited us to his office for the reading of my father’s will. I still remember his words clearly. According to Mr. Richard Collins last wishes, all his properties, businesses, and accounts shall be transferred to his daughter, Rachel Collins, until she turns 30 years old. The room went quiet.

My mother’s hand froze on her gold purse, her face changed. “Everything?” she asked sharply. The lawyer nodded. “Yes, ma’am. Everything until Rachel turns 30.” That was the day my mother stopped being my mother. At first, she tried to be nice. She cooked for me, smiled at me, and called me my darling girl. I thought grief had softened her heart.

But one night, I overheard her whispering on the phone. “Yes, yes, I’ll get her to sign the transfer papers. She’s too naive to understand what’s going on. My heart stopped. I crept back to my room and cried all night.” From that day, I started noticing her every move. Strange visitors came to the house. men in suits, speaking in low tones.

She kept locking doors, hiding documents, and whispering on the phone. “One morning, she walked into my room, holding a stack of papers.” “Rachel, sweetheart,” she said sweetly. “Your father’s businesses need maintenance. You’re too young to handle all this. Let me manage them for you until you’re older.” I looked at her.

“What kind of papers are those?” She smiled. Just small transfer forms. Nothing serious. You just have to sign here. I looked down. The papers were titled property transfer agreement. My chest tightened. Mother, dad trusted me with these properties. I can’t sign them away. Her smile faded. Rachel, she said coldly. You’re making a mistake. I’m not signing.

She sighed deeply, then stormed out of my room, slamming the door so hard that the wall shook. From that day, she changed completely. The sweet voice became sharp. The warm looks became icy. She stopped talking to me, stopped eating with me, and started traveling secretly. Two months later, she called me one morning. “Rachel, get dressed,” she said calmly.

“We’re going on a short trip.” Her voice was calm. too calm. We drove to the airport in silence. A white private jet waited for us. I thought maybe she wanted to talk or reconcile. I was wrong. Once we were in the air, she turned to me with a strange smile. Do you know what your father’s businesses are worth? I shook my head.

No, and I don’t care. I just want peace. Peace? She laughed bitterly. Peace doesn’t pay bills. Peace doesn’t buy jets or diamonds. Rachel, don’t be stupid like your father. She reached into her purse and pulled out a golden pen and those same transfer papers. Sign these, she said, pushing them toward me right now. No, I said softly.

I told you I won’t sign. Her smile disappeared. She called the pilot. Open the door, she said coldly. The man hesitated. Madam, it’s dangerous. do it,” she screamed. And that’s when the door opened. The sound of the wind filled the cabin. My heart pounded. I couldn’t believe this was happening. “Mother, what are you doing?” I cried. Her eyes burned like fire.

“You think you can betray me? You think you can keep what I built with your father?” “I’m your daughter,” I shouted. “And I’m your mother,” she hissed. which means I gave you life and I can take it back. Before I could say another word, she raised her leg. And that’s when it happened. I felt the push, the wind, and the fall.

The world turned white as the clouds swallowed me. Before we continue, if you enjoyed this first part of the story, make sure you like, comment, share, and subscribe to Dolly P Stories so you don’t miss our next interesting stories. The rush of wind filled my ears until it became a scream that belonged to the sky itself. My heart pounded so hard it felt like it might burst out of my chest.

My eyes were squeezed shut and I could feel the cold air slapping against my face as I kept falling and falling. I thought it was the end. I thought I would never open my eyes again. But suddenly, I felt something yank me hard from behind. My dress caught on something sharp. I looked down and saw the world spinning below me.

Rivers, trees, tiny houses far, far away. My dress had hooked onto a piece of metal at the edge of the jet’s door as I fell. I was hanging halfway out of the sky. My body swinging like a flag. Mother, I screamed, “Help me!” But my mother didn’t move. She just stared down at me, her eyes wide, not with fear, but with anger. Her lips trembled.

For a moment, I saw something like regret in her eyes, but it vanished as quickly as it came. Rachel, she shouted over the wind. You brought this on yourself. Then she reached for her foot and started kicking the edge of my dress to loosen it. Please, I cried, tears streaming down my face. Please, I’m your daughter. But she didn’t stop.

The sound of tearing fabric filled the air. I could feel the threads snapping one by one. My fingers clawed at the metal as I fought to hold on. My whole body shook. Then a sudden voice came from inside the jet. The pilot’s voice. Madam, stop. You’ll kill her. My mother froze. For a few seconds, she looked at him as if she’d forgotten he was there.

Her chest rose and fell quickly. Then she shouted, “Fly lower. Fly lower now.” The pilot obeyed. The jet began to descend. The clouds around me started to clear and I saw the blue sea below. Hold on, the pilot yelled. We are near the coast. My arms felt weak, but I didn’t let go. Every second felt like an hour.

Finally, the jet came low enough that the water below didn’t look so far anymore. I looked up one last time, just in time to see my mother kick my hand away. I fell. The sky swallowed me once more, but this time the sea rose to meet me. I hit the water hard and everything went black. Let when I opened my eyes, I was lying on a sandy beach. The sound of waves echoed in my ears.

My whole body achd, but I was alive. I coughed, spitting out sea water and tried to sit up. My dress was torn and my necklace was gone. For a moment, I couldn’t believe it. I had survived. Then the memories came flooding back. The jet, my mother’s face, her foot, the fall. I screamed so loud. The birds flew off the nearby palm trees.

After crying for a long time, I looked around. The beach was quiet, but not empty. In the distance, I saw small wooden huts and fishermen pulling in their nets. I tried to stand but stumbled. A young boy about 13 years old ran toward me. “Auntie, auntie, are you okay?” he asked in a frightened voice. I I fell. I stammered. Please, where am I? He looked surprised.

This is Pearl Island. You must have fallen from the sky. We saw something big fly over the sea. He helped me up and called for his father, a kind fisherman named Joseph. He was tall, dark-skinned, with strong hands and a warm voice. He helped me into his hut and gave me dry clothes and coconut water. You’re lucky to be alive,” he said softly.

“God must have sent you here for a reason.” Tears filled my eyes again. “She wanted me dead,” I whispered. “Whom,” he asked. “My mother,” he frowned, shocked. “Your own mother?” “Yes,” I said, shaking. “Because of money. Because of my father’s wealth.” He sighed deeply and sat beside me. My daughter, money can turn even a mother’s heart into stone. But don’t let her win. You survived for a reason. You must fight for the truth.

His words sank deep into my soul. That night, as I lay on the mat in his hut, I couldn’t sleep. I kept replaying every memory. My father’s smile, my mother’s greed, and the moment she pushed me. Anger burned in my heart, but so did a strange strength. “I will not die for nothing,” I whispered to myself. “If I’m alive, then maybe, just maybe, I can make her pay.

Days passed. Joseph and his son Daniel took care of me. They gave me food and shelter. I helped them cook, clean, and even sell fish at the small market near the shore. But my mind never stopped thinking. One afternoon, as we sat by the water, Daniel asked, “Auntie Rachel, are you going to go back home?” I stared at the horizon. The thoughts scared me.

My mother thought I was dead. She probably already took over everything. Yes, I said finally, but not yet. I need proof. Proof that she killed my father and tried to kill me. Joseph nodded slowly. Then you must be careful. A snake that hides in the grass can still bite twice. His words stayed with me. That night, I found an old radio in Joseph’s hut. As I turned it on, I froze. A news broadcast was playing.

The late business mogul Richard Collins Empire has been officially transferred to his widow, Mrs. Gloria Collins, following confirmation of his daughter’s death in a plain incident last week. My breath caught. They thought I was dead. I switched off the radio. My hands trembled. My mother had already done it. She had stolen everything.

For a moment, I felt weak, like the sea could swallow me again. But then I remembered my father’s voice, “Never let money rule your heart.” That’s when I made my decision. I stood up, looked out at the dark ocean, and said softly, “Mother, you may think you’ve won, but I’m still alive, and I’m coming back.

” Lightning flashed across the sky, and thunder rolled like a promise of war. The ocean wind blew gently that morning as I stood at the edge of the beach, staring at the endless blue horizon. My heart was no longer weak. It was burning with a purpose.

I was no longer the terrified girl who had begged her mother for mercy midair. I was now the daughter who had been betrayed, left for dead, and reborn by the sea. But how could I return to the city when the world believed I was gone? I had no ID, no money, no phone, nothing except the clothes Joseph’s wife had lent me and a fire inside my chest. Still, I had something even more powerful than all of that. The truth.

Joseph came walking toward me, carrying a small basket of fish and bread. Rachel, he said softly. You’ve been standing here since sunrise. What are you thinking about? I’m thinking about revenge, I said honestly. He sighed, sitting beside me on a rock. Revenge is like drinking poison and hopping your enemy will die. What you need is justice. Justice lasts longer. I looked at him silent. He was right.

But part of me still wanted my mother to feel even half of the pain she’d caused me. How can I get justice when the world thinks I’m dead? I asked. He smiled faintly. Maybe you don’t need the whole world to know yet. Sometimes the best way to fight is from the shadows. His words stayed in my mind all day.

That evening, as the sun set, painting the water gold, I made a plan. Let I asked Joseph to take me to the nearest town where boats connected Pearl Island to the mainland. The town was small but lively, women selling roasted corn, children running around barefoot, and men shouting as they loaded goods into boats. We reached the dock, and Joseph handed me a small brown envelope. Inside was some money.

Take it, he said. You’ll need it, Joseph. I can’t. He raised his hand. You can and you must. You’ve got a battle to fight. And when you win it, remember us. Tears filled my eyes. I hugged him tightly. Thank you for saving me, for believing me. He smiled. Go, child. Let the sea carry your courage. Let the boat ride back to the mainland was rough.

Waves slapped against the sides, and my heart raced each time I remembered the fall. But when I finally saw the city skyline in the distance, I felt something awaken inside me, the feeling of unfinished destiny. When I arrived at the port, I wrapped a scarf around my head to disguise myself.

The news said I was dead. I had to keep it that way for now. I walked for hours until I reached the edge of the city. The air smelled different here. expensive perfumes, gasoline, and secrets. The streets buzzed with life. Billboards with my father’s company name, Collins Empire Group, stood tall everywhere. My father had built that empire with honesty and hard work.

And now it belonged to my mother, who had destroyed everything he stood for. As I walked, I stopped by a large glass building, the headquarters of Collins Empire. I watched cars drive in and out and among them I saw a black limousine pull up. The door opened and my mother stepped out. Even from across the street I recognized her instantly.

The same golden lace, the same diamond necklace, the same air of pride. She smiled and waved to the reporters who surrounded her. “Mrs. Collins, how do you feel about inheriting your late husband’s empire?” one asked. My mother’s lips curved in a perfect fake smile. It is a painful blessing, she said smoothly. I only hope to continue my husband’s legacy. My fists clenched.

Painful blessing. She had killed him and then tried to kill me. I turned away quickly before she could notice me. I needed information. I needed proof. That’s when I saw him. Michael. Michael had been my father’s personal lawyer. He was tall, calm, and always wore glasses. He had been like an uncle to me growing up.

If anyone knew what really happened after my father’s death, it would be him. But I couldn’t just walk up to him. He too believed I was dead. So I followed him. He entered a coffee shop a few streets away. I waited until he sat down and then slipped inside quietly, covering my face with my scarf. I ordered a drink and sat two tables away.

My heart was pounding so hard it was hard to think. He was reading a newspaper. Then I saw my picture, my face on the front page. The headline read, “Tragic death of Rachel Collins confirmed, daughter of billionaire falls from private jet.” My stomach turned. Michael sighed heavily and whispered, “Poor girl. She didn’t deserve that.

” I took a deep breath, stood up, and walked toward him. My hands shook as I reached his table. “Michael,” I said softly. He looked up, confused. “Yes, do I know?” Then he froze, his eyes widened behind his glasses. “Rachel.” I nodded, my voice trembling. “I’m alive.” He stood up so quickly that his coffee spilled. “Rachel, this this is impossible.

The reports, your mother, everyone said.” She lied, I said firmly. She pushed me out of the jet. She wanted me dead because I refused to sign the transfer papers. Michael looked around nervously, then whispered, “Sit down quickly.” I sat. He rubbed his face, shaking his head. Rachel, listen. If what you’re saying is true, then you’re in danger. Your mother controls everything.

The lawyers, the police, even the board members. If she finds out you’re alive. She won’t, I interrupted. Not until I’m ready. He leaned closer. “What do you want from me?” “I want proof,” I said. “Proof that my father’s death wasn’t natural and proof that my mother forced those property papers through fraud.

” Michael stared at me for a long time. Then he sighed, “Your father’s will. There was a second version, one he signed before he died. It was meant for you, not your mother, but it disappeared the day after he passed.” I froze. Disappeared. He nodded. and only one person had access to his office that day. Your mother. A cold chill ran down my spine.

Michael, can you help me find it? I asked. He hesitated. It’s risky. If she finds out, she’ll come after both of us. She already tried to kill me, I said. What more can she do? He looked into my eyes, the eyes of the girl he once knew, and nodded slowly. All right, Rachel. Tomorrow night, meet me at Collins Tower after midnight. We’ll start there. I exhaled with relief.

For the first time since that terrible day, I felt a spark of hope. As I left the coffee shop, the street lights flickered and thunder rumbled in the distance. I wrapped my scarf tighter around my head and whispered, “This time, mother, the hunter will become the hunted.” But what I didn’t know, as I disappeared into the dark street, was that one of my mother’s bodyguards had seen me through the glass window.

He was already on the phone, whispering into his earpiece, “Madam, you’re not going to believe this. Your daughter is alive.” Midnight crept slowly across the city, draping everything in silence and shadows. Collins Tower stood tall in the heart of the business district, a massive glass skyscraper that shimmerred like a blade under the moonlight. That night, the streets were empty except for one figure dressed in black, Rachel Collins.

Her heart pounded as she approached the service entrance at the back of the building. Every sound, the hum of the street lights, the soft buzz of the wind felt louder than it should. She pulled her black hoodie tighter, took a deep breath, and whispered, “This is it.” Michael had promised to meet her here.

She hid behind a delivery truck, waiting. The minutes felt like hours. Then, from the shadows, a man in a dark coat appeared. His face was half covered by the brim of his hat, but his voice was familiar. “Rachel, Michael,” she whispered in relief, stepping out. He glanced around cautiously. We have to move fast.

I told security. There’s a system update happening tonight, so the cameras will be off for 30 minutes. She nodded. Then we have 30 minutes to find the will. They entered the building quietly. Inside, the marble floor gleamed under the dim emergency lights. Rachel’s heart clenched.

Every corner reminded her of her father. The hallways still smelled faintly of his cologne, and the portraits of him hung proudly on the walls. Dad,” she whispered under her breath. Michael led her into the elevator using a key card to unlock the top floor. “Your father’s office is still the same,” he said softly. Gloria hasn’t touched it since his death. “That’s strange,” Rachel muttered. “She hated everything he stood for.

Maybe she’s keeping up appearances,” Michael replied. The elevator doors opened with a soft ding revealing a long hallway lined with gold trimmed doors. At the end was a large double door with the name Edward Collins engraved in brass. Rachel swallowed hard. Let’s go. They entered. The office was like a time capsule. A large mahogany desk sat near the window. Papers neatly arranged.

A photo of young Rachel with her father beside it. The city lights glittered below, reflecting off the glass walls like stars. Rachel walked to the photo and touched the frame gently. I’m going to fix this, Dad. I promise. Michael was already at the desk unlocking drawers. If the will was hidden, it’s probably in his safe. Rachel frowned.

He had one behind that painting. She walked to the large painting of a waterfall, one her father had loved, and pushed it aside. There it was, a small electronic safe embedded into the wall. Michael pulled out a small device. Luckily, I still have access codes from when I worked here.

He pressed a few buttons, and the safe beeped softly before opening with a click. Inside was stacks of old documents, a few gold bars, and one brown envelope marked private for Rachel only. Rachel’s breath caught. That’s it. She reached for the envelope with trembling hands and slowly opened it. Inside was a neatly folded letter and an official will document. She read aloud to my beloved daughter Rachel Collins.

If you are reading this, it means something has gone wrong. I have rewritten my will to ensure that the Collins Empire remains in your hands, not Gloria’s. I fear she has been deceiving me. Protect yourself and never sign anything under pressure. Love, Dad. Rachel’s eyes filled with tears. He knew. He knew she was planning something. Michael nodded grimly. This document changes everything.

Once we make this public, Gloria loses everything. The money, the properties, even her position as CEO. Rachel took a deep breath. Then we go to the media tomorrow. We show them the truth. But just as she folded the document, a faint click echoed from behind. Michael froze. Rachel turned slowly. The double doors of the office were open and standing there was Gloria Collins, her mother, wearing a long golden robe and a cold, dangerous smile. Well, well, Gloria said softly, stepping inside.

The dead has risen. Rachel’s heart dropped. Mother. Gloria’s eyes glimmered like fire. I should have known the sea couldn’t swallow my blood, but I didn’t expect you to be foolish enough to walk right back into my building. Michael stepped protectively in front of Rachel. Gloria, stop this madness. The truth is out. We have the will.

Gloria’s lips twitched into a cruel smile. You think one piece of paper will save her. You forget who controls the courts, the police, the media, everything. She snapped her fingers. Two large men in black suits entered the office, her private bodyguards. One of them carried a pistol. Rachel’s pulse quickened. Mom, you’ve gone too far. Dad loved you.

How could you betray him like this? Gloria laughed, the sound sharp and bitter. Love doesn’t build empires, my dear. Power does. Your father was weak, and you? You’re just like him. Michael whispered, “Rachel, run.” But before Rachel could move, one of the bodyguards lunged toward her. Michael shoved her aside, struggling with the guard as papers flew everywhere. The sound of breaking glass filled the room.

Rachel grabbed the will and ran toward the elevator, but Gloria shouted, “Stop her!” The second bodyguard chased after her, his footsteps heavy. Rachel sprinted down the hallway, clutching the brown envelope against her chest. Her lungs burned as she reached the emergency stairs and burst through the door.

She ran down the stairs, one flight, two three, but the man was close behind. She could hear his voice shouting into a walkie-talkie. She’s headed for the lower floors. Rachel’s mind raced. I can’t let them catch me. Not now. She pushed through another door and found herself in the building’s underground parking lot.

The place was dark, empty, and filled with echoes. She ducked behind a car, breathing hard. Then headlights. A car engine roared to life on the far end. A black SUV began rolling slowly toward her. She recognized the driver instantly. Gloria. The SUV stopped a few meters away. The tinted window rolled down. Gloria’s voice was calm, but icy. You could have had everything, Rachel, but you chose death twice.

Rachel stood frozen, clutching the will. I don’t want your money. I want my father’s name to rest in peace. Gloria’s face hardened. Then you’ll join him. The SUV accelerated straight toward Rachel. She turned and ran, the sound of screeching tires echoing behind her. The envelope slipped from her grip and fell onto the floor.

As she turned to grab it, the blinding headlights closed in and Michael suddenly appeared from the shadows, shoving her out of the way just as the SUV smashed into a pillar. The crash thundered through the parking lot. Smoke filled the air. Rachel coughed, looking up. The SUV door flew open.

Gloria stumbled out, limping, her eyes blazing with rage. “You can’t hide forever!” she screamed. “You’re mine, Rachel. Mine.” Rachel grabbed Michael’s arm. We have to go. They ran toward the emergency exit, disappearing into the night as sirens wailed in the distance. But as they escaped, Rachel looked back one last time and saw her mother standing in the flickering firelight of the crashed SUV, her face twisted between pain and fury.

And Rachel whispered to herself, “This isn’t over.” Rain poured heavily that night, washing over the city like the heavens themselves were angry. Rachel and Michael ran through the dark alleyways. Their clothes soaked, their hearts pounding from the chaos that had just unfolded. The echo of the crash, Gloria’s screams, and the smell of burning rubber still clung to their minds.

Every shadow felt like it was watching them. Every sound felt like danger. Rachel clutched the brown envelope to her chest, the one that contained her father’s true will, now damp but safe. “We can’t go to the police,” she gasped as they stopped under a narrow roof for shelter. “She controls them all. She’ll twist the story and call us thieves.

” Michael nodded grimly. “You’re right. She’s got power everywhere, but we need to get this document somewhere safe, somewhere she can’t reach.” Rachel hesitated. Like, where? He thought for a moment, then said, “There’s an old journalist I know, Mr. Thompson. He used to work for your father before Gloria had him blacklisted. If we can get this will to him, he’ll publish the truth.

” Rachel nodded slowly. “Then that’s our only hope.” They found an abandoned warehouse nearby and decided to rest there until morning. The building smelled of old wood and rust, but it was dry and quiet. Rachel sat against the wall, hugging her knees, staring at the rain outside. Her mind was spinning. The betrayal, the danger, the loss. But beneath it all was something else. Determination.

Michael noticed her silence. You know, he said gently. Your father once told me that you reminded him of himself. Brave but stubborn. Rachel smiled faintly. I guess that’s what got him killed. Michael shook his head. No. What killed him was love. Love for someone who didn’t deserve it. Rachel’s smile faded. My mother. He nodded slowly.

Gloria was once kind. I remember her before the money came. But greed is like fire once it starts burning. It never stops until it destroys everything around it. Rachel looked down at the envelope in her hands. She won’t stop, Michael. Not until I’m dead. Then we don’t let her win, he said firmly.

They sat in silence for a while, the rain beating softly against the broken windows. Eventually, Rachel closed her eyes and whispered, “I just wish I could ask my father what to do.” Michael placed a comforting hand on her shoulder. Then listened to his letter. “He already told you what to do. Protect yourself and never give up. Let the next morning they set out early. The streets were still wet, but the storm had passed. Mr.

Thompson’s office was at the edge of the city in an old building near the docks. Rachel kept her hood up as they moved through the crowd. Every few steps, she glanced behind her. Do you think she’s looking for us? Michael sighed. Gloria doesn’t stop. By now, she probably has your face on every camera in the city.

Rachel’s stomach twisted with fear. Then we have to hurry. When they reached the docks, a group of men were unloading boxes from a truck. Among them stood an older man with silver hair and glasses. Mr. Thompson. He looked surprised when he saw Michael. Michael, my boy, I thought you were gone, the man said, wiping his hands. And who’s this young lady? Michael leaned closer.

Sir, this is Rachel Collins, Edward’s daughter. The old man’s face froze. Edward’s daughter, but she’s not dead. Rachel interrupted softly. And I need your help. Mr. Thompson stared at her for a long moment, then nodded. Come inside. Let The inside of his small office was cluttered with newspapers, typewriters, and old photos. Rachel handed him the envelope.

He opened it carefully, scanning through the letter and the will. “My God,” he murmured. “This This changes everything. Your father left everything to you. If this goes public, Gloria’s empire collapses. That’s what I want, Rachel said firmly. I don’t care about the money. I just want the truth out. Mr.

Thompson nodded slowly. Then we’ll publish it. But you have to be careful. Once she knows I have this, she’ll come after me, too. Rachel’s eyes hardened. I’ll protect you. I’m done running. As they spoke, Michael’s phone buzzed. He looked at the screen and frowned. Rachel, we need to go now. She blinked.

Why? He turned the phone toward her. A news alert flashed across the screen. Breaking news. Fugitive Rachel Collins wanted for attempted murder of businesswoman Gloria Collins after violent crash at Collins Tower. Rachel’s blood ran cold. She She’s blaming me. Mr. Thompson clenched his jaw. She’s faster than I thought. We have to act before her lies spread.

But before they could move, the sound of screeching tires echoed outside. Michael rushed to the window and cursed under his breath. “She found us.” Outside, three black SUVs had surrounded the building. Men in dark suits poured out, holding guns and radios. Rachel’s heart raced. “What do we do?” Mr. Thompson’s voice was steady.

There’s a back door through the printing room. Go now. I’ll hold them off. Rachel grabbed his arm. No, I can’t leave you. Go, he barked, pushing her toward the hallway. This is bigger than all of us. Save your father’s truth. Tears filled her eyes, but she obeyed.

She and Michael sprinted through the back corridors, papers flying as gunshots echoed from the front office. Rachel stumbled, but kept going. We can’t let them take the will. Michael grabbed her hand. We won’t. They burst through the back door into the rain soaked docks. The smell of the ocean hit their faces as they ran toward a small fishing boat tied to the pier. Michael started the engine while Rachel ducked low, clutching the envelope to her chest again.

From behind, the guards appeared, shouting and firing. Bullets hit the wooden posts around them, sending splinters flying. “Go, Michael, go!” Rachel screamed. The boat roared to life, pulling away from the dock just as one of the SUVs burst through the fence, crashing into the water. As they sped away, Rachel turned back to see the men growing smaller behind them.

But among them stood Gloria Collins, drenched by the rain, her golden robe soaked, and her eyes full of fury. She shouted something Rachel couldn’t hear, but her lips were clear. You can’t escape me, Rachel. Rachel’s voice trembled as she whispered to herself, “Maybe not, mother, but you’ll never escape the truth.

” Lightning flashed again across the sky, and this time it felt like the heavens themselves were watching the war between mother and daughter unfold. The storm had quieted, but the sea was still restless. Waves slapped hard against the small boat as it sped through the dark waters. Rachel clung tightly to the side, her wet hair whipping against her face, her heart beating like a drum.

Beside her, Michael gripped the steering wheel, his knuckles white. “We need to get out of sight,” he shouted over the roar of the wind. “Gloria will have every port and checkpoint under watch by morning.” Rachel nodded, shivering. “Then where do we go?” Michael’s eyes scan the horizon. There’s an old island about 15 mi east, Paradise Point. It’s mostly abandoned now.

We can hide there and contact Thompson’s friend from the news network. Rachel frowned. You mean someone else from the press? Yes, Michael replied. Someone who isn’t scared of Gloria. Rachel looked down at the brown envelope, the will that could end her mother’s empire, now sealed safely inside a plastic bag.

Then that’s where we’ll start again, she whispered. Let By dawn the boat reached the island. The air smelled of salt and wild flowers and broken palm huts dotted the sandy shore. Rachel stepped off the boat, her legs weak from exhaustion. She walked up the beach slowly, feeling the sun’s first light warm her face. For a moment, it was peaceful, too peaceful.

Michael tied the boat to a wooden post and sighed. We’ll stay here for a few days. I’ll find food and water. Rachel nodded and sat on a rock staring at the ocean. She couldn’t believe how much had changed from a daughter of a billionaire to a fugitive hiding on an abandoned island.

Her mind went back to her father again. His laughter, his wisdom, his gentle voice. Never let greed make your heart blind, he used to say. But her mother had done just that. Rachel whispered softly, “Father, I will finish what you started.” Michael returned with a few coconuts and roasted fish. They ate quietly under a palm tree.

Then, as Rachel wiped her hands, she asked, “Michael, do you think I’m strong enough to face her again?” He looked at her with a small smile. “You already did, Rachel. You survived what most wouldn’t. That strength doesn’t come from power, it comes from purpose.

” Rachel smiled faintly, but before she could reply, she heard a faint buzz. Michael pulled out a small satellite phone. “It’s Thompson’s contact,” he said. He answered quickly. “Hello.” A woman’s voice came through calm but firm. “Is this Michael?” “Mr. Thompson told me about the will. I’m Eivelyn. Channel 7 investigations.” Rachel leaned closer.

“Is he safe?” The line went silent for a moment. Then Eivelyn said softly, “I’m sorry. Gloria’s men raided his office after you escaped. He didn’t make it.” Rachel froze. “The world seemed to stop.” Michael’s eyes went dark with anger. “No.” Rachel shook her head slowly. “He died helping us,” Evelyn continued.

“I managed to recover his hard drive before they found it. It has audio recordings, conversations between Gloria and one of her lawyers, proof that she tampered with Edward Collins death certificate and bribed judges to change the will. Rachel’s heart leaped. Then we can expose her. Yes, Evelyn said, “But we must meet in person.

I can’t send this online. She has people watching everything. Meet me at Cape Haven tomorrow night by the lighthouse.” Michael agreed. Well be there. The line went dead. Rachel stared at the ocean again, determination burning in her eyes. Gloria thinks she’s untouchable. But tomorrow we end it. The next night, Rachel and Michael arrived at Cape Haven, a lonely coastal town known for its lighthouse that watched over the sea. The air was cold and damp.

They parked their small rented car near the rocks and waited. In the distance, the lighthouse beam swept slowly across the dark waves. “She should be here soon,” Michael murmured. Rachel nodded, clutching the brown envelope. Every part of her body was tense. Every second felt like it was dragging. Then headlights appeared.

A black sedan rolled up the narrow dirt path and stopped. A woman stepped out, tall, light-skinned, wearing a long gray coat. She carried a brown bag under her arm. Elyn, Rachel asked. The woman smiled faintly. Yes, and you must be Rachel. You look just like your father. Rachel blinked back tears. You knew him. I met him once, Evelyn said. He believed in truth, something that’s hard to find these days.

She reached into her bag and pulled out a small flash drive. This contains the evidence we need. Once we go public, Gloria Collins will have nowhere to hide. Rachel took it with trembling hands. Thank you. But before anyone could say another word, a gunshot cracked through the night.

Bang! Evelyn gasped, clutching her shoulder as blood spread through her coat. She fell to her knees. Rachel screamed. Eivelyn. Michael spun around, pulling Rachel behind the car. From the darkness, figures appeared. Armed men in suits moving fast and silent. “Gloria’s men,” Michael shouted. Rachel’s heart pounded wildly. “No. How did they find us?” Evelyn groaned weakly.

“She,” she traced my call. Another shot shattered the car window. Rachel ducked, covering her ears. The brown envelope slipped from her grasp and landed in the dirt. Michael grabbed her hand. We have to get to the lighthouse. They ran, bullets flying around them, sparks lighting up the night. The path was steep, muddy, and slippery.

Rachel could barely breathe as they climbed. Eivelyn, bleeding but determined, stumbled behind them, clutching her arm. Keep going, she shouted. Don’t stop. When they reached the top, the lighthouse loomed above them like a giant guardian. The door was unlocked. They rushed inside, slamming it shut.

Rachel leaned against the wall, panting. We are trapped. Michael looked around. Not yet. There’s a way up to the light room. We can signal the coast guards. They climbed the spiral stairs as footsteps and voices echoed below. The attackers had entered. Rachel could hear her mother’s voice. Calm, cold, cruel. Rachel, Gloria called out, her tone echoing through the tower.

You’ve caused me enough embarrassment. Let’s end this like mother and daughter should. Rachel froze. She’s here. Michael’s face darkened. Then it ends tonight. They reached the top, bursting into the glass chamber where the huge light turned slowly, shining far across the sea. Rachel grabbed a flare gun from the emergency box and pointed it toward the stairs.

Her hands trembled, but her eyes were steady. Footsteps grew louder. Gloria’s heels clicked on the metal steps, echoing with every step. Finally, her face appeared in the doorway, calm, elegant, and monstrous all at once. The wind from the sea whipped her golden hair around her face, but her eyes burned like fire. You just don’t know when to die, do you? Gloria said softly.

Rachel aimed the flare gun. Neither do you. Gloria laughed bitterly. You think truth will save you. The world loves power, not honesty. I built everything we have. You’re just a weak girl chasing ghosts. Rachel’s voice broke with anger. You killed my father. You stole everything from him from me. Gloria stepped closer. He was a fool.

I gave him the empire he dreamed of, and he tried to take it from me. Because he realized you never loved him. Rachel screamed. You only loved his money. Gloria’s expression cracked for a moment. Pain flickered in her eyes, but it was gone as quickly as it came. Maybe, but love doesn’t feed empires. Then she pulled out a gun. Rachel froze.

The world went silent except for the waves below and the rotating hum of the light. Give me the will, Gloria said coldly. Or you’ll join your father tonight. Rachel gripped the flare gun tighter, her hands shaking. If I die, the truth still lives in here. She pointed to the flash drive in her pocket. You can’t stop it anymore. Gloria smiled faintly. Watch me.

She raised her gun and the door behind her burst open as Michael tackled her to the ground. The gun went off, the bullet flying into the glass and shattering it into a thousand sparkling shards. Rachel screamed, dropping the flare gun as the wind howled through the broken window. Gloria and Michael struggled fiercely, rolling across the floor. The gun slid toward Rachel’s feet.

She hesitated only a moment before grabbing it. “Stop!” she shouted, pointing it at her mother. Gloria froze, breathing heavily, her eyes locking with Rachel. “Don’t make me do this,” Rachel said softly. Gloria’s lips curved into a cold smile. “Then do it. Be just like me.” Rachel’s finger trembled on the trigger. Thunder roared outside.

Lightning flashed, illuminating mother and daughter, locked in a battle between blood and truth. And then the lighthouse shook under the force of the storm. The sea roared below like an angry beast, and wind whipped through the shattered glass, scattering papers, dust, and echoes of the past. Rachel stood there, her arms trembling, the flare gun still aimed at her mother. Michael was bleeding from his forehead after the struggle, his chest heaving.

Eivelyn crouched by the door, pressing a hand to her wounded shoulder, watching silently. For a moment, time itself seemed frozen, just mother and daughter face to face. Gloria’s voice broke through the noise. “You won’t do it,” she said coldly. “You’re not like me.” Rachel’s eyes filled with tears. “You’re right,” she whispered. “I’m not.

” Then, instead of firing the gun at her mother, Rachel turned, aimed at the open ocean, and fired the flare high into the sky. The red light burst through the storm clouds like a fiery signal, a call for help, a declaration that truth could not be buried. Gloria’s eyes widened. “What have you done?” Rachel met her gaze. I called the Coast Guard.

You’re done, mother. Gloria’s fury boiled over. She screamed and lunged forward, slapping Rachel across the face so hard that she stumbled backward. Ungrateful child, Gloria shouted. You destroy everything your father and I built. Rachel wiped the blood from her lip and glared at her. You didn’t build it. You stole it, and now the world will know.

Michael stepped forward, blocking Gloria’s path. It’s over. The flash drive is already uploaded. Eivelyn sent it before we came. Gloria froze. You’re lying. Eivelyn struggled to her feet. Blood dripping down her arm. No, he’s not. I sent it to every major network and the anti-corruption bureau.

They’re probably watching you on live broadcast right now. Gloria’s face drained of color. She turned slowly toward the window where the faint sound of sirens began to echo from below. approaching boats. Flashing lights cutting through the mist. No, she whispered. No. Rachel stepped closer. This ends here, mother. No more lies. No more pain. But Gloria wasn’t done yet.

In one last desperate move, she snatched up the handgun lying on the floor and aimed it at Rachel’s chest. “I gave you life,” she screamed. “And I’ll take it if I have to.” Before she could pull the trigger, Michael tackled her again. The gun went off. Bang! And a sharp cry followed. The two of them crashed through the broken railing. Michael managed to grab the edge of the platform, hanging on with one arm.

Gloria dangled from his other hand, her eyes wild with panic. Michael Rachel screamed, rushing forward. She grabbed his arm, trying to pull him up. Gloria’s grip was slipping. The waves below were a furious whirlpool waiting to swallow her hole. Rachel, help me,” Gloria begged, tears finally streaming down her face. “Please, I’m your mother.

” Rachel hesitated. For a second, she saw the woman who once tucked her into bed, who smiled at her father’s birthday parties, who laughed as they drove together years ago before greed consumed her. But then she remembered the bridge, the cold push, the betrayal. Rachel’s voice broke. You stopped being my mother the day you tried to kill me.

Gloria’s grip slipped and she plunged into the raging sea below. The sound of her scream was lost in the thunder. Rachel and Michael fell backward onto the floor, gasping for air. Rachel stared down through the shattered glass, her tears mixing with the rain. Michael coughed. She’s gone. Rachel nodded weakly. Maybe, maybe now she’ll finally face the truth.

Moments later, Coast Guard officers burst through the door. Elyn waved her hand weakly, showing her badge. They’re with me. Rachel collapsed against the wall, her body shaking. The flashing red light from the flare reflected off her tear streaked face.

She had survived again, but this time it truly felt like the end. 3 months later, the golden sun rose over Lagos Island, casting light on a peaceful morning. The Collins mansion, once filled with secrets and shadows, now stood under new ownership. Reporters had swarmed the property for weeks as Gloria’s crimes made headlines across Africa.

Business tycoon Gloria Collins found dead after scandal expose. Daughter survives attempted murder uncovers billiondoll fraud. Rachel sat in a quiet garden by the sea wearing a white dress. She looks stronger now, healed, calm, and radiant. A small gravestone stood before her. Edward Collins, 1959, 2025. A man of honor. Truth never dies.

Michael approached holding two cups of coffee. The board officially reinstated your father’s foundation, he said with a smile. You’re the new chairwoman. Rachel smiled softly. Not for wealth, but for justice. That’s what he wanted. He nodded and Eivelyn’s documentary aired last week. It hit over 10 million views. Rachel laughed lightly.

Maybe people still care about the truth after all. They stood in silence for a while, watching the waves. The same sea that had tried to take her. The same sea that had ended her mother. Finally, Rachel whispered, “Father, I did it. Your legacy lives on.” Michael placed his hand gently on her shoulder. And now so do you. She looked up at him, smiling through tears.

It’s over.