Chapter Ten: The Tide Turns

The days following Claire’s explosive report were a blur of tension and activity. Ashton Hill was in an uproar, with townspeople demanding answers and justice. The local news outlets picked up the story, and soon the state and even national media began to take interest. The small town was thrust into the spotlight, and the pressure on the conspirators intensified.

Saint, Emily, and Elias knew they had to stay one step ahead. They continued to gather and organize the remaining evidence, ensuring it was ready for the next wave of revelations. Claire’s detailed exposé was set to publish within a week, and they had to be prepared for the fallout.

One afternoon, as they reviewed the final pieces of evidence, a knock on the door startled them. Saint peered through the peephole and saw Sheriff Marcus, a stern but fair man who had been a friend of his father. Saint opened the door, his heart pounding.

"Sheriff," Saint greeted, trying to keep his voice steady.

"Saint, Emily, Elias," the sheriff nodded to each of them. "I’ve been following what’s been happening. I need to talk to you all."

They invited him in, and the sheriff took a seat at the dining table, looking around at the evidence spread out before him.

"I’ve known something was wrong for a while," Sheriff Marcus began, his voice heavy with resignation. "But I didn’t have the proof or the backing to act. Now, with everything coming to light, I want to help."

Saint felt a glimmer of hope. "What can you do, Sheriff?"

"I...