Chapter 3
Exactly nine minutes later, the sharp, authoritative knock echoed against the heavy oak front door.
Daniel straightened his designer blazer, wearing a practiced, charming smile as he walked over to open it. He assumed he could flash his bright white teeth, explain away a domestic disturbance, and send the police packing.
“Good evening, officers,” Daniel began in his smoothest, most patronizing tone. “I’m glad you’re here. My wife is having a severe mental breakdown tonight—stress from work, you understand. She’s throwing things and—”
The tall, broad-shouldered officer in the lead didn’t even blink. He pushed past Daniel without a second glance, stepping directly into the foyer. Behind him, a second officer flanked the doorway, eyes scanning the room instantly for threats.
“Which one of you is Elena Vance?” the lead officer asked, his voice deep and commanding.
“I am, Officer,” I said, stepping forward from the living room area. The harsh lighting caught the distinct red mark blooming across my left cheekbone.
The officer’s eyes locked onto my face, and his expression hardened immediately. He turned his gaze back to Daniel, who was suddenly looking a lot less confident.
“Sir, did you strike this woman?” the officer demanded, stepping up to Daniel.
Daniel stammered, his hands coming up defensively. “Now wait a minute! It was an accident, a domestic disagreement. She ruined dinner, she was disrespectful, and—and she’s trespassing in my house!”
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“Your house?” I interrupted, my voice cutting through the room like a razor blade. I walked over to my desk, picked up a thick folder, and pulled out the original property deed and the signed prenuptial agreement. I handed them directly to the officer. “Officer, my name is Elena Vance. This apartment belongs exclusively to me, purchased long before I ever met this man. He and his mother are guests who have just assaulted me and refused to leave when ordered.”
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