Chapter 5
I unzipped the side pocket of Vanessa’s leather bag, pulling out a heavy silver flash drive shaped like a key.
The drive was stamped with the seal of the United States Department of Energy.
My pulse skipped a beat as I held the cold metal in my palm.
This wasn't a corporate embezzlement scheme; this involved federal assets hidden on my private coastline.
“Marcus,” I said, handing him the silver key. “Prepare the elevator to the sub-basement.”
“Amelia, wait!” Vanessa yelled, trying to stand up again.
“My father’s men are on their way here right now! They’re coming from the naval yard in Connecticut!”
I stopped at the doorway, looking back over my shoulder at her.
“How many men, Vanessa?”
“A full tactical team!” she screamed, tears running down her pale cheeks.
“They aren't coming to negotiate with you, Amelia! They’re coming to clean up the evidence!”
Outside, the distant thrum of heavy helicopter blades began to vibrate through the floorboards of the resort.
Two dark military-grade transport helicopters swept in low over the ocean, their lights killed.
The guests inside the lounge began to scream as the lights throughout Grand Haven flickered and died.
Emergency red backup lights immediately washed the walls in pulses of warning, just as they had in the lobby.
I turned to Marcus, my voice sharp and immovable.
“Initiate Level Five lockdown. Seal the blast doors along the perimeter.”
“What about the guests?” Marcus asked, pulling his sidearm from its holster.
May you like
“Move them to the primary wine cellar beneath the main kitchen,” I ordered.
“And get me down to Pier 9 before those helicopters touch down on my helipad.”
