Chapter 1: The Gates Open
Chapter 1: The Gates Open
Vivian didn't answer.
She simply looked toward the towering windows facing the north entrance.
For several long seconds...
Nothing happened.
Julian smiled again.
"I told you."
"No one is coming."
Then the silence outside changed.
Headlights swept across the snow-dusted driveway.
One pair.
Then another.
Then six identical black SUVs rolled through the iron gates in perfect formation.
Every guest turned toward the windows.
The string quartet stopped playing.
Julian's smile disappeared.
The lead vehicle stopped at the front steps.
Men and women in dark suits stepped out with military precision.
No weapons were drawn.
No one shouted.
They simply moved with the quiet confidence of professionals who already controlled the situation.
The front doors opened.
An older man entered first.
Silver hair.
Navy overcoat.
Perfect posture.
Malcolm Reeves.
For forty years he had served as chief of security for the Hartwell family.
Many of the older guests recognized him immediately.
Someone whispered,
"I thought he retired."
Malcolm looked directly at Vivian.
"Miss Hartwell."
May you like
His voice carried through the ballroom.
"We're here."
