A Life Debt Repaid novel (John and Cordy) novel Chapter 1088

Keith growled with rising indignation then, "He probably wasn't working alone, no—he must be working with the Cranstons. Lucas would never have infiltrated the study if Sean did not lure us out of the manor. And who else could dare set fire to our home, let alone have the balls to do it?!"

"We fell for their ploy?! We were this close to greatness… but they turned the tables on us?!" Jean cried, her body shaking with rage right then.

"Mom, it's not the time for regrets. We have to go—the fire is getting worse."

"If we do, we'd be letting the Cranstons in to get the document and destroy us!" Jean snapped viciously.

Though Keith was speechless, anyone could tell that the fire was to cause confusion while the Cranstons sneaked in to take the document.

"No, I'll stay," Jean growled resolutely. "I shall see who would have the spine to barge into my house!"

"But it's really dangerous, Mom. If we can't stop the fire—"

"Go!" Jean said, making up her mind right there and then. "I've lived long enough. The family is in your hands from now on!"

"Mom!" Keith cried in agitation, but it was obvious that his mother was ready to die and take the Cranstons down with her.

"I'll see for myself how far the Cranstons can go!" Jean snapped stubbornly. "Take the others and run when you have to, Keith. You don't have to worry about me."

"How could I just run and leave you behind…" Keith groaned.

The other Lynds chimed in. "Keith is right, Mom! If we have to run, we'll do it together!"

"We'd never leave you, Grandma. We have to go now!"

Jena simply waved them off. "I've already lived long enough for a person my age. You're still young, and the rest of the family legacy is up to you. All I hope is for everyone to support and love each other, and work together to bring down the Cranstons to rise as the greatest dynasty in the nation! At the very least, you'd be fulfilling my late husband's wish."

"Mom!"

"Grandma!"

"Save your breath. I've made up my mind," Jean said coolly.

Keith certainly had more to say, but Jean told her, "You're the eldest, Keith. The fate of the family rests on your shoulders. It's your duty now—make sure everyone gets out safely."