Chapter 22

“Victor’s background check has been scrubbed from the federal databases,” Anna noted, swiping through the encrypted tablet on her desk. She looked up at her husband, completely unfazed by the potential danger of his treacherous bloodline. “He is operating as a ghost. But ghosts leave traces when they need funding.”

Alexander offered a rare, dark smile, immensely proud of the sharp, analytical mind his wife possessed. “It is a desperate move,” Alexander agreed softly. “Victor controls a faction of rogue mercenaries. He was cut off from our maritime ports a decade ago. I suspect he intends to use Emily’s highly publicized equestrian event as a stage to demand a ransom and force a hostile takeover.”

Anna’s jaw tightened. The thought of a rogue relative attempting to terrorize her daughter ignited a fierce, protective anger within her. She stood up, smoothing the fabric of her elegant day dress. “Are we going to cancel her exhibition, Alexander?” she asked.

“Does an apex predator cancel a hunt when the prey willingly walks into the open field?” Alexander inquired, stepping around the desk to pull her securely against his chest. He kissed her forehead, his deeply masculine presence a fortress of absolute safety. “Let him attempt his ambush. We will welcome him into the light of day, and then we will show him exactly what lives in the dark.” The syndicate prepared for a silent, invisible war. The Hayes family would not cower in their mansion. They would face the threat head-on.

>>Chapter 23