Chapter 4 - The Night of reckoningThe plan was audacious. They would infiltrate Vane’s private estate during his annual charity gala—the same type of event where he groomed his political allies.
Adrian dressed in his best, looking like the powerful tycoon everyone expected, while Mara took on the role of his executive assistant. Inside the ballroom, they navigated the crowd like sharks.
"Keep your eyes on the service entrance," Adrian whispered as they grabbed champagne. "Vane is expected to meet with the Governor in the study at midnight."
Mara nodded, her heart racing. She was wearing a wire, connected to Nathan’s team in the van outside.
As the clock neared midnight, they moved toward the study. The security was tight, but Adrian’s reputation opened doors. They slipped into the dark room just as Vane entered, accompanied by a man they recognized as a high-ranking police official.
"The records are buried," Vane was saying, his voice oily and arrogant. "The Blackwood investigation was the only real threat, but since we eliminated the fiancée, he’s been a dog chasing his own tail."
Adrian’s breath hitched. Mara felt his hand clench into a fist, his knuckles turning white.
"And the girl?" the officer asked. "The new one? The one singing at the club?"
"She's a distraction," Vane laughed. "Adrian is getting soft. He's letting a stray cat play in his house. Take care of both of them tonight."
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Adrian didn't wait. He kicked the door open, his weapon already drawn. "It wasn't a distraction, Julian. It was a setup."
The gunfire erupted instantly.
