Chapter 7 - The Calm Before the Storm
Ethan bypassed the corporate offices entirely and took the private elevator directly up to his residential penthouse at the very top of the high-rise.
The doors opened to a sprawling, warm space filled with plush couches, soft lighting, and an expansive kitchen. Maya stood in the foyer, paralyzed. She felt completely out of place in her dirty uniform, terrified to even step on the pristine white rugs.
But Ethan didn't give her time to worry. Within twenty minutes, his private chef was awakened and instructed to prepare a massive, nutrient-rich meal. Nora’s eyes widened as plates of warm roasted chicken, mashed potatoes, and fresh fruit were placed in front of them.
Ethan personally warmed a bottle of milk for baby Lucy, handing it to Maya before stepping out onto his balcony to make a phone call.
He dialed Marcus, his Head of Global Security.
"Marcus. I need a full, quiet audit of the building operations payroll for the last six months. Pull all the security footage from the basement utility corridors. And lock down the executive floor at 8:00 AM tomorrow. Nobody leaves."
"Understood, boss. Is there a threat?" Marcus asked, his tone instantly shifting to high alert.
"Yes," Ethan replied coldly, staring out at the glowing city lights. "A parasite."
When Ethan walked back inside, Maya and Nora had eaten their fill. For the first time in months, the exhausted mother looked truly safe. A housekeeper had prepared the massive guest suite, providing them with soft robes and a warm, safe bed.
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"Get some rest, Maya," Ethan said, standing in the doorway of the bedroom. "When the sun comes up, you're going to get your justice."
👉 What arrogant mistake will Valerie make when she walks into the office the next day?
