The Lost Son's Cipher: The Risk of Revelation
In the cafe, Martin sat in the available chair near the left corner, his gaze fixed on the note in his hand.
Martin
Don't bother. I just got here too.
Max
(A playful smirk) I thought you'd be in the park.
Martin
Oh come on, don't be silly. You knew that wasn't our usual spot.
Max
Just kidding. So, what will we be talking about?
Martin showed the note. The faded ink and worn paper spoke of years gone by.
Max
"If you're my son come and find me"? (Confused)
Martin
Fortunately, that's what it says. Oh, look here.
Martin unfolded the note, revealing a single word scrawled beneath the message.
Max
Crimes? What? I don't understand. Say, you don't think this note is from your parents, do you?
Martin
I've considered that possibility, but it might not be from them. Probably must be from our classmates trying to prank me.
Max
I can't imagine anyone from our school doing that though. Given that everyone wants to be on your good side.
Martin
Maybe someone I don't know? Playing pranks at random people? But no, not possible since the note owner knows I'm separated with my parents.
Max
Yeah, you're right about that. Wait, someone who's jealous of what you can do?
Martin
Idiot. 😤 You're the only one who knows my ability.
Max
No, not that, I mean you can charm ladies. 😏 It's hard for others, you know. 😜
Martin
Well, not to brag, but...
Max
Aheemm... it smells like humility.
Martin
Oh, sorry, just telling the truth. Okay, back to the topic. I'm considering the possibility of this coming from my parents. What do you think?
Max
Well, if it's the real deal, then that sounds complicated.
Martin
Yeah, I know, right. That's why I'm asking for your help.
Max
Oh, what can I do for you, Mr.?
Martin
Your family seems to have a lot of influence in Havenwood City. So I'm thinking you know a lot about this city's dark secrets?
Max
Why are you even asking for dark secrets?
Martin
You see, it says here crimes. So I'm thinking it might have something to do with criminal organizations or something like that. Or perhaps my parents got involved with them? I don't know.
Max
Max: (A flicker of unease crosses his face) It should be hard. Digging into those matters might cost our lives, you know. My family has always warned me about getting involved in things that are better left untouched.
Martin
Oh, come on, please. I don't want to be an orphan anymore. You're my only friend. You know how much I longed for my parents.
Max
I know. But please understand. My family... they have connections to powerful people. Things can get dangerous very quickly.
Martin
Just what it is you are afraid of?? (Angry) (Calmed down) Okay, never mind, forget it. I should have not involved you. I'll just find another way. Sorry for taking your time.
Martin pushed the note across the table, his face a mask of disappointment. He turned away, his shoulders slumping, the weight of his loneliness settling back upon him.
Max
Martin... (Hesitant) Wait. We can talk about this. But I need to be sure. We need to prove that all the theories we've come up with—the prank, the jealousy, even the possibility of your parents—are not true. Only then can I be certain that there's something real here, something worth risking my neck for.
Martin looked back at Max, a flicker of hope in his eyes.
Max
If we can eliminate all the other possibilities, then I'll help you. We'll find your parents. But we need to be smart about it. We need a plan.
The aroma of freshly brewed coffee hung in the air, a subtle reminder that even in the darkest of times, there was always a chance for a new beginning. ☕️
Who wrote the note?
- Is it a prank from someone trying to play a joke on Martin?
- Could it be a message from Martin's parents, finally reaching out to him after all these years?
- Or is there a more sinister explanation, with someone trying to manipulate or harm Martin?
Comments
Elyn Bvz
Don't leave me in suspense! Please update soon!
2024-07-30
0