Julian reached the large American flag hanging against the white wall.
He grabbed the gold trim of the flag and pulled it aside.
A concealed steel door sat hidden directly behind the heavy fabric.
This door also featured a heavy electronic lock on the frame.
Julian turned back to Evelyn with absolute fury in his eyes.
Julian: Give me the master passcode for this door right now!
Evelyn: That room is private property belonging to the estate management.
Julian picked up the heating torch from the wooden stage floor.
He ignited the flame again and stepped close to Evelyn.
Julian: I am giving you five seconds to open this door.
Evelyn backed away until her heels hit the edge of the stage.
She pulled a small black keycard out of her silver purse.
Her hands shook wildly as she held out the plastic card.
Julian snatched the keycard from her hand without saying a word.
He ran back to the hidden door behind the American flag.
He swiped the black card through the narrow digital sensor slot.
A green light flashed, and a heavy lock disengaged inside the door.
Julian pulled the thick steel handle down and pushed the door open.
The room inside was dark and cold, filled with legal boxes.
Sitting on a small metal chair was his missing wife Clara.
Her hands were tied behind her back with thick zip ties.
A piece of grey tape covered her mouth securely.
Clara raised her head, her eyes wide with shock and relief.
Julian rushed into the small room and dropped to his knees.
He carefully peeled the tape away from her dry lips.
Clara: Julian... You actually found me! She locked me away!
Julian: I am right here, Clara, you are going home.
Julian used his pocket knife to cut the plastic zip ties.
Clara collapsed forward into his arms, weeping uncontrollably.
She had been held captive to force a settlement agreement.
Evelyn wanted total control over the entire family inheritance fund.
She had staged Clara's disappearance to control the entire estate.
Julian helped Clara stand up and supported her frail weight.