CHAPTER 4: THE BREAKING POINT
Lily looked up from the floor, her tear-stained face catching the light of the crystal chandelier. Her bottom lip trembled uncontrollably as she whispered a single, heartbreaking word into the empty space.
"Dad..." she sobbed softly, dropping the cleaning cloth as all her remaining strength gave out.
Julian’s hand went completely slack, the heavy vintage brown leather briefcase slipping from his grip. It hit the reflective marble floor with a loud, echoing thud that reverberated through the entire mansion.
The golden glass bottle of bourbon in Helena’s hand froze mid-air as the smug smile vanished from her face. Her expression twisted into a sudden, icy realization of absolute dread.
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Ethan dropped his phone to his side, his color draining instantly as he stared at his older brother’s terrifying expression. The arrogant smirk on his face evaporated, replaced by genuine, unadulterated fear.
Julian didn't rush forward or scream in a blind panic. Instead, a chilling, murderous calm descended over him, far more dangerous than any outburst of rage.
