Chapter 7 - The SafehouseBy evening, I found myself standing inside a spacious, modern loft apartment on the upper floors of a secure high-rise overlooking the Brooklyn waterfront. Floor-to-ceiling glass windows offered a breathtaking panoramic view of the glittering city skyline, but the bulletproof glass and discreet security cameras in every corner reminded me that this was a gilded cage.
Victor stood by the door, handing me a secure keycard. “You will have a detail stationed in the lobby and a personal driver whenever you need to visit the foundation office or check on your mother at her care facility. Do not attempt to contact your old friends or landlords. For your own safety, your old life is effectively paused.”
“And Maria?” I asked, looking up at the stoic bodyguard. “Does she know what’s happening?”
“My boss ensures my mother is shielded from the ugliness of our business,” Victor answered flatly. “She believes you accepted a prestigious administrative fellowship funded by the family. Play your part, Sophie, and everyone stays safe.”
May you like
As Victor left, locking the heavy steel door behind him, I walked over to the massive window and looked out at the city lights. I was safe, debt-free, and guaranteed a career in healthcare—yet I had never felt more trapped.
I was entirely at the mercy of Antonio Russo.
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