Chapter 4 - The Astoria Trap
Evelyn stared at the television screen in absolute, paralyzing horror.
Her safe, quiet little apartment was currently filled with heavily armed mercenaries.
Adrian forced himself to stand up, ignoring the agonizing pain in his ribs.
He walked over to a secret weapons locker hidden behind a large bookshelf.
He began loading heavy magazines into an assault rifle with terrifying speed.
Evelyn grabbed his arm and firmly stated that she was coming with him to save Tessa.
Adrian aggressively refused, ordering her to stay locked in the secure penthouse.
Evelyn fiercely replied that it was her apartment, and she refused to hide like a coward anymore.
Adrian saw the fiery determination in her eyes and reluctantly agreed.
They drove through the rainy city streets at breakneck speed.
They arrived at the Astoria apartment building and quietly picked the lock on the back service entrance.
They crept up the dark stairwell, weapons drawn and senses on high alert.
Adrian kicked open the door to Evelyn's apartment, fully prepared for a massive firefight.
The apartment was completely empty and totally destroyed.
Books were shredded, furniture was overturned, and Tessa was absolutely nowhere to be seen.
Evelyn fell to her knees, sobbing at the sight of her ruined sanctuary.
She noticed a strange, old leather-bound book sitting perfectly intact on the kitchen counter.
She slowly opened the cover and found a handwritten note tucked inside.
May you like
The blood drained completely from her face as she recognized the elegant handwriting.
It was her late father's distinct penmanship, warning her not to trust the Marino family.
