Chapter 17
The heavy, reinforced mahogany doors of the penthouse exploded inward with a deafening, concussive roar. Smoke and debris billowed into the grand living area, illuminated by the bright, natural light pouring through the floor-to-ceiling windows.
Julian stepped through the wreckage, his weapon raised, expecting a chaotic firefight. Instead, the expansive room was completely silent. The pristine marble floors were empty.
"Sweep the perimeter," Julian commanded his men, stepping cautiously into the cinematic light.
Before the mercenaries could fan out, the shadows of the room erupted. Claire had strategically disabled the overhead lighting in the flanking corridors. She moved with blinding, explosive speed, stepping out from behind a marble pillar. She fired twice, dropping the two leading mercenaries instantly with perfect headshots.
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Julian spun around, raising his weapon, but Claire was already moving. She utilized the absolute, terrifying grace he had taught her, diving behind a heavy oak desk as Julian unleashed a devastating barrage of suppressing fire. The expensive glass windows shattered, raining crystal shards across the floor.
"You can't hide from me, Claire!" Julian shouted, his American accent echoing in the luxurious war zone. "I taught you every move you know! Give me my son!"
