Chapter 5 - The frozen lake
Damian burst through the back doors into the biting winter cold. The snow was falling heavily now, coating the manicured lawns in a pristine layer of white. He scanned the tree line, his eyes sharp and lethal. There, leading toward the edge of the frozen lake at the back of the property, were two sets of footprints. One belonged to a woman's boots. The other, small flats.
Marcus! Damian roared into his radio, sprinting down the stone path, ignoring the cold biting at his suit. Lock down the perimeter! No one leaves! Martha has Holly!
He followed the tracks through the snow-draped pine trees, his heart hammering against his ribs. He reached the clearing near the frozen lake. Standing near the edge of the ice, shivering in her red velvet dress, was Holly. Martha stood behind her, clutching the little girl’s arm, holding a dark, heavy pistol pointed directly at Damian’s chest.
Let her go, Martha, Damian said, stopping ten feet away. His voice was terrifyingly calm, devoid of any panic. You don't want to do this.
I don't have a choice, Mr. Romano, Martha said, her voice trembling. Vivienne promised me money. She promised my son would be safe from the Chicago syndicate. She told me to bring the girl to the lake.
Where is Vivienne? Damian demanded, taking a slow, microscopic step forward.
Before Martha could answer, the roaring engine of a snowmobile cut through the quiet winter air. From the other side of the frozen lake, a figure dressed in high-end winter gear sped toward them. The snowmobile skidded to a halt near the edge of the ice. Vivienne pulled off her helmet, shaking out her perfect blonde hair, her fair skin glowing in the freezing air. She had escaped the guest house.
I told you, Damian, you need me, Vivienne called out over the wind, flashing her vicious smile. Martha, bring the girl.
No! Holly cried, trying to pull her arm away.
Martha hesitated, looking between the powerful mafia boss and the glamorous, calculating woman on the ice. In that split second of hesitation, Damian moved. He didn't draw a weapon. He simply closed the distance with terrifying athletic speed. Before Martha could react, Damian grabbed the barrel of the gun, twisting it sharply out of her hand, and shoved her into the snow.
He scooped Holly up into his arms, pressing her face into his shoulder so she wouldn't see the violence in his eyes.
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Vivienne revved the engine of the snowmobile. You saved her today, Damian! she yelled over the noise. But the Chicago syndicate knows about the letters now! We are coming for the rest of your empire!
She spun the machine around and sped away across the frozen lake, disappearing into the dense winter forest. Damian stood in the snow, holding his daughter tightly. The game had completely changed. This wasn't just about a jealous fiancée anymore. It was an all-out war.
