At the VIP clinic, I was helping my nine-month pregnant daughter change for her final ultrasound. The moment her shirt slipped off, I felt my breath catch in my throat.

to process the shift. He opened his mouth to respond, but the synchronized sound of heavy tactical boots advancing down the hallway cut him off.

Chapter 4: The Takedown

“What exactly did you just say to me?” Julian demanded, his voice controlled, though his eyes betrayed growing alarm.

Beatrice stepped forward, her bracelets clinking like armor. “Eleanor,continue reading …