Chapter 19 - The Standoff
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"I propose a permanent solution," I said, standing up from the leather armchair. I didn't raise my weapon, but I kept my hand resting near my coat pocket. "I returned your $50 million. In exchange, I demand absolute immunity for myself and my daughter. Your syndicate never approaches us, never monitors us, and never threatens us again."
Sokolov nodded slowly. "That is acceptable. And Victoria?"
"Victoria needs to be silenced before she can strike a plea deal with the District Attorney," I stated, locking eyes with the Russian monster. "She is in a high-security cell, but I know a man of your resources can reach anyone."
Sokolov let out a low, appreciative whistle. "You are asking me to assassinate a high-profile billionaire inside a state penitentiary."
"I am advising you to clean up your mess before it destroys your empire," I corrected him.
Trevor scrambled to his knees, his eyes wide with horror as he realized I was ordering the execution of his mother.
"No! Claire, you can't do this!" Trevor screamed, lunging toward me. "She's my mother! Don't do this!"
One of the Russian guards didn't hesitate. He swung the heavy stock of his assault rifle brutally into the side of Trevor’s head. The sickening crack of bone echoed in the study. Trevor collapsed onto the floor, unconscious and bleeding heavily onto the expensive rug.
I didn't even look at him. I kept my gaze fixed on Sokolov.
"Do we have a deal?" I asked quietly.
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Sokolov looked at the lockbox containing his fortune, then looked at the cold, unyielding woman standing before him. He recognized that I was no longer a civilian; the grief and betrayal had forged me into a weapon entirely capable of unleashing chaos if crossed.
"We have a deal, Mrs. Whitmore," Sokolov agreed, offering a slight, respectful bow. "You have my word. The Sokolov syndicate will never cross your path again. And Victoria Whitmore will not live to see the new year."
