Chapter 5 - The Midnight ExodusBy 4:00 AM, I had downloaded every single video file onto three separate encrypted flash drives, securing copies in a safety deposit box and emailing them directly to the district attorney's office.
When footsteps echoed down the grand staircase at 5:30 AM, I was sitting in the dark study with my briefcase packed and my service-grade revolver locked securely in its case.
Victoria walked past the open office door, pulling a sleek designer rolling suitcase behind her. She looked smug, as if she believed my midnight threat was just a temporary fit of anger.
"I'm going to stay at the downtown penthouse until you calm down, Daniel," Victoria announced coldly, pausing in the doorway. "When you're ready to apologize for your disrespect, call my attorney."
I didn't stand up. I simply looked at her with a gaze so devoid of human warmth that she actually took a half-step back.
"You aren't going to a penthouse, Victoria," I said, my voice cutting through the quiet morning.
Two sharp knocks sounded at our front door.
Frowning, Victoria walked to the entryway and pulled the door open. Standing on the porch were two uniformed Columbus police officers, flanked by a female detective holding a warrant.
"Victoria Sterling-Mitchell?" the detective asked smoothly, flashing her badge. "You're under arrest for aggravated child abuse, unlawful restraint, and felony endangerment."
Victoria’s jaw dropped. She spun around, staring at me in absolute, horrified disbelief as the officers stepped inside and clicked the steel handcuffs around her wrists.
"Daniel! You can't do this!" she shrieked, thrashing against the deputies as they hauled her toward the front door.
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I stood up, walking slowly to the threshold, looking down at her with unshakeable finality.
"You locked my daughter in the dark and chained her like an animal," I said coldly. "Enjoy your new cage."
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