Chapter 4 - THE PANIC OUTSIDE
Beyond the massive dark wooden double doors, muffled gasps rippled through the gathered high-society party guests.
Elegant men in dark tuxedos and women in glittering evening wear pressed against the hallway walls in sheer confusion.
Secret service agents in sleek dark suits materialized from the shadows, clearing the corridors with practiced, silent efficiency.
A framed US flag mounted on the brightly lit wall fluttered slightly as the estate's central ventilation systems shifted gears.
"Step away from the doors immediately! Federal mandate in effect!" an armed agent commanded, raising a clear barrier.
Inside the sealed room, the faint sounds of the chaotic hallway filtered through the heavy acoustic wood.
Jonathan stared at the door handles in disbelief, realizing his multi-million-dollar social standing was evaporating into thin air.
"You set me up... This entire gala was a trap designed to draw me out," Jonathan whispered, his voice trembling.
"You didn't need any trap, Jonathan; your own greed walked you right through these doors," Elena corrected him quietly.
May you like
She reached up with a steady hand, gently touching the edge of a fresh bruise on her cheekbone.
***
