Chapter 17 - Safehouse Lockdown
Realizing Chicago was no longer secure, Marcus authorized an immediate military tactical evacuation[cite: 7].
A private C-17 transport aircraft flew Marcus, Chloe, and Martha to a secure government compound in Aspen, Colorado[cite: 7].
Nestled high in the snow-capped Rocky Mountains, the estate was fortified with motion sensors and armed perimeter guards[cite: 7].
Chloe sat wrapped in a warm wool blanket by a roaring stone fireplace, sipping hot chocolate with Martha[cite: 7].
For the first time in weeks, the terrified color had returned to the little girl's pale cheeks[cite: 7].
"Daddy, is the mean lady going to come back?" Chloe asked softly, her big brown eyes filled with innocent fear[cite: 7].
Marcus knelt beside her wheelchair, taking her tiny hands into his strong palms[cite: 7].
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"Never again, sweetheart. I promise you on my life," Marcus answered with soft, unbreakable certainty[cite: 7].
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