Chapter 5 - The Extraction
“Take them into custody pending immediate asset freeze, forensic audit, and transport to the district federal holding facility,” Agent Vance-Miller ordered, motioning to the two tactical officers standing behind her.
Julian didn’t fight back. The fight had been completely beaten out of him. As the heavy steel handcuffs clicked harshly around his wrists, he cast one last desperate, pathetic look toward Conrad.
“You’ll ruin the whole family name with this, Conrad,” Julian muttered, his voice cracking with bitterness. “People will talk about this scandal for generations. You’re destroying a legacy.”
“Some names deserve to be buried so new, honest ones can finally grow,” Conrad answered simply, turning his back on him.
The federal officers escorted Julian and Agatha away from the terrace, leading them past the cluster of wealthy socialites who hastily averted their eyes, terrified of being associated with the disgraced couple for even a second.
Conrad knelt back down beside Elliot, his expression softening instantly from the hard, dangerous edge of vengeance into deep, boundless paternal warmth. He gently brushed the damp dirt from his son’s small knees and checked his ankles for any lasting marks.
“You okay, buddy?” Conrad asked softly, his voice full of care.
May you like
Elliot nodded, wrapping his small arms tightly around his father’s neck and burying his face in his shoulder. “Can we go home now, Daddy?”
“Yeah, bud,” Conrad whispered, lifting him securely into his arms. “We’re going home. And nobody is ever going to hurt you or lock you up again.”
