Chapter 8: Ambush in the Rain**
As they emerged from the depository onto Mercer Street, the sound of screeching tires shattered the afternoon quiet. A black SUV accelerated violently across the intersection, swerving directly toward them.
"Get down!" Marcus roared, shoving Clara and Julian back toward the stone archway of the bank.
The SUV struck a reinforced mailbox just feet from where they stood, sending metal debris flying across the sidewalk. Two men in dark raincoats jumped out, one reaching inside his jacket for a weapon.
Julian didn't hesitate. Adrenaline surged through him. He lunged forward, tackling the first assailant against the hood of the vehicle. The man dropped a heavy steel baton, groaning as Julian pinned him to the wet asphalt with practiced efficiency.
Marcus drew his licensed firearm, keeping the second attacker frozen in his tracks. "Don't move! Hands on your head!"
Sirens wailed in the distance. The first attacker spat blood onto the pavement, glaring at Julian. "Miss Kensington sends her regards. You won't make it to Friday, Sterling."
Clara stood by the bank entrance, clutching the leather journal tightly against her chest, her face pale but her eyes blazing with determination. "They’re getting desperate."
May you like
Julian stood up, wiping rain and mud from his coat. He looked down at the captured man without an ounce of fear. "Tell Victoria that every time she strikes at my family, the price she pays in court doubles."
---
