Chapter 3 - The Sanctuary Upstairs
In the third-floor nursery, Elena turned the heavy brass key in the deadbolt.
The room was warm, filled with soft ambient light from the cloud-shaped lamps.
Little Leo’s cries gradually subsided into soft, hitching hiccups against Elena's chest.
She unclipped the carrier straps with trembling fingers, lifting the baby into her arms.
"You're okay, sweet boy," Elena murmured, tears finally escaping her own eyes.
She checked his small legs and arms, confirming he had not been struck during Victoria's kick.
Elena carried him to the rocking chair beside the arched window overlooking the vast estate grounds.
Below on the circular driveway, two unmarked black SUVs had already blocked the front gates.
Security personnel were securing the perimeter, rolling out heavy spike strips.
Elena's hands shook as she recalled the sheer malice in Victoria’s eyes.
Victoria had never wanted Leo for love.
She wanted Leo because Marcus’s grandfather had left a seventy-five-million-dollar trust that vested solely in the primary custodial parent.
If Victoria lost custody, her multi-million-dollar luxury lifestyle would collapse overnight.
The nursery intercom chimed with a gentle, authorized tone.
"Elena, it's Marcus," his voice came through the speaker.
"Is Leo unharmed?"
Elena pressed the talk button on the wall panel.
"He is safe, Mr. Vance.
No physical injuries, but he was terrified."
A long pause followed on the line before Marcus spoke again, his voice lower and heavier than before.
"Thank you for protecting my son, Elena.
May you like
Stay where you are.
The police and our legal counsel are arriving now."
