Chapter 18 - The Uninvited Shadow|
Midnight approached as the gala wound down.
Guests were slowly departing into the crisp Chicago night air, while catering staff cleared the remaining crystal glasses.
I sat at a private table near the balcony doors, helping Sophie wrap her drawing of our family in a protective silk napkin so she could take it home.
Gabriel was near the bar, speaking with Daniel about the security arrangements for our flight to Italy the following week—our first real family vacation.
Suddenly, a waiter in a dark uniform approached our table, holding a silver tray with a sealed black envelope.
“Miss Brooks?” the waiter asked politely. “A messenger left this at the front desk for you.”
I frowned, setting the drawing down. “Who was the messenger?”
“She didn't leave a name, ma'am. Just said it was urgent regarding the Marconi trial.”
My pulse quickened slightly. I picked up the black envelope, breaking the wax seal.
Inside was a single sheet of heavy cream cardstock.
Written in sharp, familiar handwriting in crimson ink were four short lines:
You think you won, Hannah.
You think putting my father in prison makes you safe.
Look under the grand piano in the estate's west wing before you leave for Rome.
— Isabella.
My blood ran cold.
I stood up instantly, clutching the paper to my chest, my eyes scanning the ballroom frantically for Gabriel.
Gabriel noticed my sudden movement from across the room. He ended his conversation with Daniel instantly, walking toward me with long, rapid strides.
“Hannah? What is it?” Gabriel asked, seeing my pale face.
I handed him the black paper.
May you like
Gabriel read the words in two seconds flat. His dark eyes went entirely black with an unhinged, dangerous fury.
“Daniel!” Gabriel growled into his lapel radio. “Lockdown the estate in Chicago now! Send the bomb squad and canine unit to the west wing immediately!”
