Chapter 12 - The Interception
Liam reached the school just as the children were being let out for recess.
He didn't go through the front gate. He went to the side fence, catching the attention of Mrs. Gable, Lily’s teacher.
"Arthur? What's wrong?" she asked, seeing the absolute intensity in his eyes.
"Family emergency. I need to take Maya right now. Quietly," Liam said, his tone leaving no room for argument.
Mrs. Gable nodded, sensing the danger. She brought Lily to the side gate.
"Papa? Why are we leaving early?" Lily asked, clutching her stuffed rabbit.
"We are going to play a game of hide and seek, little bird," Liam said, picking her up and moving quickly down the hidden, overgrown path that led back to their cliffside cottage.
As they walked, Liam heard the crunch of gravel behind them. He didn't turn around. He handed Lily the keys to the cottage.
"Run to the house, lock the door, and get into the basement space. Do not come out until I say the secret word. Go!"
Lily ran.
May you like
Liam turned around, stepping out from the foliage to block the narrow path. The two men from the sedan were walking briskly toward him.
"Liam Harrison," the taller man said, reaching inside his jacket. "Your mother sends her regards."
