Chapter 18
CHAPTER 18 — THE SWITCH
Before Julian’s men could react to the deception, the sound of a high-powered marine engine roared through the fog. A massive coast guard patrol boat smashed against the side of the pier, its blinding floodlights illuminating the entire scene.
"Federal agents! Nobody move!" a megaphone boomed from the vessel.
Julian Vance didn't hesitate. He pulled a compact pistol from his jacket, aiming it straight at Eleanor’s head. But before he could pull the trigger, a shot rang out from the woods at the base of the pier.
The bullet caught Julian in the shoulder, spinning him around. He dropped the gun, cursing as his security detail scrambled for cover behind the sedan, returning fire against the hidden sniper.
From the tree line, Claire stepped into the light, holding Richard Lane’s tactical rifle, her stance steady despite the rain. She had been trained to shoot by her father before he died, a detail the Lanes and Arthur had forgotten.
"Get away from my mother!" Claire shouted, her voice echoing over the gunfire.
The coast guard tactical team swarmed the pier, pinning Julian’s men to the ground within seconds. Victoria was pulled to safety by two agents, sobbing hysterically as the tape was ripped from her mouth.
Julian Vance was brought to his knees, his hands cuffed behind his back, blood soaking his expensive suit jacket. He looked up at Eleanor, his eyes burning with venom.
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"You think this changes anything, Eleanor?" Julian spat, coughing up saltwater. "Vanguard is a global entity. You cut off one head, three more take its place. Your foundation is ruined. Your family name is radioactive. You’ve destroyed everything to save a maid's bastard."
Eleanor walked over, looking down at him with absolute disdain. "The Whitmore name isn't built on bricks or bank accounts, Julian. It’s built on survival. And as for my granddaughter... she has more right to this legacy than you ever will."
