Lynn Combs

When eccentric media mogul Gregory Whitmore dies, his family gathers for the reading of his will. His grandchildren receive educational funds, cash, and personal gifts, while his children inherit shares of the company and property. But the rest of the vast fortune—including the Hamptons estate and priceless art—will go to the first heir to solve Gregory’s final treasure hunt.

Seventeen-year-old Clara, given a detective kit and a cryptic note, follows a trail of clues through Gregory’s estate, retracing childhood memories they shared. Her journey leads her to a hidden letter revealing that the true inheritance was meant for her—not because she was clever, but because she always listened and looked beyond wealth and noise. Clara inherits everything, but more importantly, understands her grandfather’s lesson: what matters most is family and staying true to oneself.

This story took 2nd place in the Springfield Writers Guild Summer Literary Contest.