She checks her weapon one final time. “Born ready.”
We move like smoke through the mill’s shadows. Every step calculated, every position covered. MC brothers and federal agents flow together with single purpose.
“Contact rear entrance.” Zane’s voice comes quiet. “Two tangos down.”
“Copy.” Rose coordinates from her command post. “Teams Alpha and Bravo in position. Charlie team setting charges.”
I follow Evie up rusted stairs, watching her back as she clears corners. The further we climb, the more her gallery manager persona falls away. This is Elena Delgado, as she was forced to become—survivor, fighter, and protector.
This is the woman who stole millions from a monster to save her children.
The third floor comes too quickly. Through broken windows, I glimpse tactical teams in position—Chase’s rifle trained on entry points, Zane’s crew securing exits.
“Welcome home.” Luca’s voice carries from the main room. Did you really think I wouldn’t know you’d brought them? That I don’t know every move you make?”
“Like you knew I was helping others escape?” Evie steps into view, weapon ready. “Like you knew I was stealing your money?”
His laugh holds no humor. “Temporary rebellion, nothing more. Did you enjoy playing house with your bikers? Pretending at freedom?”
“Not pretending.” I move beside her, letting him see me. “Not anymore.”
He’s exactly as I imagined—expensive suit even now, perfectly styled hair, manicured hands that have dealt so much pain. His eyes are cold as he studies me.
“The protective one.” His smile doesn’t reach those eyes. “Tell me, does she cry your name like she used to cry mine? Before she learned submission?”
Evie’s finger tightens on her trigger. “Last chance, Luca. Surrender.”
“Or what?” He spreads his hands, unconcerned. “You’ll shoot me? Please. We both know you’re nothing without me. Just a scared little girl playing at strength.”
“She’s stronger than you ever knew.” Rose’s voice carries as she enters. “Strong enough to bring down your entire empire.”
For the first time, uncertainty crosses his face. “Agent Martinez. Still trying to save lost causes?”
“Not lost.” Rose’s badge gleams. “Just waiting for justice.”
“Justice?” He laughs again. “I own justice in three states. Every judge, every cop?—”
“Used to own them.” She moves closer. “Until evidence of your operation went public an hour ago. Every account, every crime, every payoff. It’s all burning, Luca. Just like you always threatened others.”
His composure cracks. “You’re lying.”
“Check your phone.” Evie’s voice holds steel. “Check what’s left of your kingdom.”
He does. I watch the color drain from his face as reports flood in—his empire crumbling in real time.
“Impossible.” The word comes strangled. “I had safeguards?—”
“I know them all.” Evie steps forward. “Every password. Every account. Every dirty secret. Who do you think kept your books while planning escape routes for your victims?”
“You dare?” Real rage transforms his features. “After everything I gave you? Everything I taught you?”
“You taught me survival.” She doesn’t flinch. “Taught me to protect what’s mine. Well, guess what? I learned. Better than you knew.”
It happens fast—his hand moving to his jacket, weapon appearing. But we’re faster.
My shot takes his shoulder. Rose hits his knee. He goes down cursing in Italian, blood staining that perfect suit.
“Luca Delgado.” Rose approaches with cuffs. “You’re under arrest for racketeering, human trafficking, money laundering?—”