CHAPTER ONE HUNDRED AND EIGHTY TWO - A Reckoning Long Overdue

Deonna's heels clicked against the pavement as she hurried towards the penthouse, Kayla's small hand clasped tightly in hers. The early evening sun cast long shadows across the street, and a cool breeze ruffled Deonna's hair. "Mommy, why did we leave work early?" Kayla asked, her big brown eyes looking up curiously. Deonna smiled down at her daughter. "Because, sweetie, I thought we could have a special mommy-daughter evening while Daddy's away. How does pizza and a movie sound?" Kayla's face lit up. "Can we have extra cheese?" "Of course we can," Deonna laughed, fishing in her purse for the keys as they approached the building's entrance. As they reached the door, Deonna's hand froze mid-air. There, lying innocently on the doormat, was a small white envelope. No name, no address – just a plain, unmarked envelope. "What's that, Mommy?" Kayla asked, pointing at the envelope. Deonna hesitated, an inexplicable unease settling in her stomach. "I'm not sure, sweetie. It's probably ju