Chapter 4 - The Ride
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The private elevator descended smoothly, dropping them straight into the underground VIP parking garage, bypassing the crowded gala entirely.
A sleek, armored black Maybach was idling near the exit. Two massive men in dark suits stood by the rear doors. The moment they saw Gabriel approaching with Lily, their posture stiffened into absolute, military-like alertness.
"Open the door, Elias," Gabriel commanded.
One of the men immediately pulled the heavy rear door open. Gabriel guided Lily into the spacious, leather-scented interior before sliding in beside her. The doors shut with a heavy, soundproof thud, instantly cutting off the noise of the garage.
The driver didn't ask for a destination. The Maybach surged forward, pulling out into the rainy Chicago night.
Lily sat rigidly against the plush leather seat, her hands clutched tightly in her lap. The shock was beginning to wear off, replaced by a deep, throbbing pain in her shoulder and a terrifying realization of her new reality. She had just traded a billionaire abuser for a mafia boss.
"Why are you doing this?" Lily finally asked, breaking the heavy silence in the cabin. She looked over at Gabriel, who was staring out the tinted window at the passing city lights.
Gabriel turned his head, his dark eyes studying her face.
"Because I despise men who believe their bank accounts give them the right to act like animals," Gabriel said slowly. "Ryan Caldwell thinks he owns this city. He thinks he can break people and throw away the pieces without consequence."
"And you don't?" Lily challenged, surprising herself with her own boldness.
Gabriel let out a soft, dark chuckle. "I am a monster, Lily. I won't deny that. But I do not prey on the innocent. I prey on other monsters."
He reached into a small refrigerated compartment between the seats and pulled out a bottle of water, twisting the cap off and handing it to her.
"Drink," he ordered gently.
She took the bottle, her fingers brushing against his. "Where are you taking me?"
"To my penthouse," Gabriel replied. "It is fully secure. My private physician is already waiting there to look at your shoulder. You will be safe."
May you like
"I have an apartment," she whispered.
"Your apartment is not safe," Gabriel countered. "Caldwell's people will look for you to silence you. They will tear your life apart to protect his reputation. Tonight, you disappear. Tomorrow, he pays."
