Chapter 6 - THE SHADOWS ON THE LAWN
The blinding white high beams of the three black SUVs illuminated the rain-slicked glass of the cottage windows.
Inside, the warm glow of the living room felt suddenly fragile, surrounded by the towering oak trees and the pitch-black riverbanks.
Julian stood up from the velvet armchair, his broad frame blocking his mother from the window. "Stay behind me," he said, his executive demeanor instantly replacing his shock. "My uncle wouldn't dare do anything illegal in broad daylight, but at night..."
"He’s done far worse than this at night, Julian," Elowen said quietly, her voice eerily calm as she walked toward an old wooden cabinet near the kitchen door. She pulled out a heavy steel flashlight and a small, worn iron key. "Victor didn't come here to talk to you. He came to destroy the physical records before the morning stock market opens."
Outside, heavy leather boots crunched on the gravel driveway. Four men in dark tactical suits stepped out of the vehicles, led by a tall, scar-faced man named Vance—Victor Thorne’s personal head of security.
Vance didn't bother knocking. He raised a heavy boot and kicked the cottage door directly beside the deadbolt.
THWACK!
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The wooden door frame splintered, swinging wide open into the living room. Vance stepped inside, holding a silenced pistol low at his side, flanked by three armed operatives.
"Mr. Thorne," Vance said, offering Julian a cold, professional nod. "Your uncle is very concerned for your safety. He believes this woman has drugged or coerced you. You're coming back to the estate now."
