Chapter 5 - Trouble at the Center
Despite Julian’s protests, Clara insisted on going to the East End Community Center the next morning.
“The kids need their breakfast program, Julian,” she argued, tying her hair into a messy bun.
Julian paced the length of his kitchen like a caged panther.
“It is not safe. Volkov knows about the altercation with Marcus.”
“I refuse to hide while my community suffers,” Clara said, lifting her chin stubbornly.
Julian stopped pacing and stared at her, deeply struck by her fierce bravery.
“Fine,” he conceded, dragging a hand through his dark hair.
“But Elias goes with you, and my men will be stationed at every exit.”
Clara arrived at the center to find three black SUVs parked outside.
Inside, the children were ecstatic, eating fresh bagels and fruit that Julian had secretly catered.
Clara smiled, feeling a warmth in her chest she hadn’t felt in years.
But the peace shattered just before noon.
The heavy glass doors of the center burst open.
Three large men in leather jackets stormed into the lobby, shoving a teenage volunteer against the wall.
“Where is the teacher?” the lead thug demanded, drawing a heavy revolver.
Before Clara could move, Elias was in front of her, his weapon drawn.
“Leave now, or die here,” Elias warned in a deadpan voice.
The kids screamed, diving beneath the cafeteria tables.
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Clara’s heart pounded against her ribs.
The violence of Julian’s world had followed her to her only sanctuary.
