He stepped over to the painting and swung the heavy gold frame outward on its hinges.

Set deep into the brickwork of the chimney was a small, black iron safe.

It had a standard combination dial, but directly beneath the dial was a single, circular keyhole.

My hand was trembling as I reached into my pocket and pulled out the silver key.

I stepped forward and slid the key into the lock.

It fit perfectly.

I turned it to the right, and a heavy, metallic click echoed through the quiet room.

Nathan gripped the handle and pulled the safe door open.

Inside lay a single, thick leather binder and a sealed manila envelope.

Nathan reached in, pulled them out, and set them down on the desk under the light of the green lamp.

Mr. Hayes stepped closer, his analytical eyes scanning the items.

“Open the envelope first,” I said, my heart beating fast against my ribs.

Nathan tore open the top of the manila envelope and slid the contents onto the desk.

It was a certified medical document from a private clinic in upstate New York.