CHAPTER 4: SAFE HOUSE ON THE RIDGE
By dawn, the SUV was climbing into the dense, pine-covered Adirondack mountains. Marco had purchased a nondescript cabin on a granite ridge years ago under a dead man’s identity. No digital footprint, no internet, no smart devices—only iron stoves, well water, and absolute silence.
Lily fell asleep against Marco’s shoulder during the ascent. Watching her quiet, rhythmic breathing, Marco was reminded of David—Lily’s late father and Marco’s dearest friend. David had died trying to dismantle the Rossi cartel from the inside, leaving behind a digital ledger containing every politician, judge, and cartel boss on Rossi's payroll. David had entrusted two things to Marco before dying: the ledger, and his daughter.
Dante pulled the SUV into a hidden barn behind the cabin. "Perimeter is clear, boss. But Rossi’s reach is deep. If he traced Miller to the estate, he’ll have half the East Coast combed within forty-eight hours."
"We don't need forty-eight hours," Marco replied, stepping out into the brisk mountain air while cradling Lily in a heavy wool blanket. "We need enough time to teach Lily she is safe, and enough time to bury Rossi permanently."
Inside the cabin, the scent of aged cedar and crackling firewood brought a fleeting sense of warmth. Marco placed Lily onto a small cot, tucking the blankets around her shoulders.
May you like
For the first time in twelve hours, Marco sat down by the window, racked with fatigue, looking at his tattooed hands. The sins of his past were knocking at the door, and this innocent child was caught in the doorway.
---
