Chapter 9 - The Labyrinth of Steel
The engine of Ward’s SUV sputtered as steam began to hiss from a punctured radiator. He killed the headlights, coasting into the shadowed overhang between two rows of rusted freight containers.
"The engine’s done," Ward whispered, unbuckling his seatbelt. "We move on foot. There’s an old watchman’s office near the deepwater pier. It has a landline."
Elena unbuckled herself and climbed into the back seat, wrapping Leo in his thick winter coat. Her breathing was shallow, sharp Braxton Hicks contractions tightening across her abdomen from the sheer terror of the chase.
"I’m scared, Elena," Leo sobbed softly against her neck.
"I know, baby. I know," she whispered, kissing his damp cheek. "Look at me. Look at my eyes. We are going to be fine. Remember what your mommy said in her letter? You are braver than you know."
Ward drew his sidearm from beneath his coat, his demeanor instantly turning tactical. He cracked open the car door, scanning the misty corridor between the containers.
A hundred yards away, the doors of the black SUV slammed shut. Three men in dark rain jackets stepped into the drizzle, their tactical flashlights cutting beams through the murky harbor air. In the center, protected under a large black umbrella held by a bodyguard, was Julian Vance.
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"Elena!" Julian’s voice echoed against the metal containers, smooth, commanding, and laced with condescending authority. "You’ve made your point. You’ve had your little tantrum! Come out, and we’ll forget this embarrassing episode ever took place. Bring my son to me!"
Elena held her breath, pressing Leo tighter against her shoulder as Ward motioned for them to slip through a narrow gap between two green containers.
