CHAPTER 3
Alexander reached out and paused the recording, his hand remaining perfectly still in the air for five agonizing seconds.
He didn't yell, he didn't punch a wall, and he didn't curse; he simply reached inside his heavy military jacket and pulled out a secure satellite phone.
"Major Vance," Alexander said into the receiver, his voice dropping into a low, terrifying cadence that sent chills down my spine. "Activate the regional response team. I have an active tactical situation involving physical assault, extortion, and unlawful restraint in downtown Dallas."
Within twenty seconds, Alexander concluded the call, turning back to face me and our shaking daughter with absolute, unyielding intent.
"Elena, take Sofia into the bathroom and help her change out of that dress," Alexander instructed smoothly, taking off his field jacket and laying it gently over Sofia’s shoulders. "Do not wash her face or hands yet. We need every piece of forensic evidence preserved intact."
"Alexander, what are you going to do?" I asked, my voice cracking as I held my daughter close against my side. "The Robles family owns half the commercial real estate in Dallas, and Carmen’s brother is a district judge!"
Alexander looked at me, a cold, dark smile briefly touching the corners of his mouth for the very first time.
"I don't care if her brother is the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, Elena," Alexander said softly, his voice cutting through the quiet apartment like razor wire. "They touched my daughter, and before the sun comes up over White Rock Lake, I am going to erase their entire empire."
Two heavy knocks echoed at my front door, making Sofia jump in sheer terror as she clutched my arm.
May you like
Alexander walked calmly to the door, opening it to reveal three men dressed in dark tactical suits, carrying heavy pelican cases and medical equipment.
"Colonel," the lead man said, offering a crisp, silent salute. "The forensics unit and private security detail are operational. We have eyes on the Grand Regency Hotel."
