novelraw Chapter 98: The Storm at our doorstep
Chapter 98: The Storm at our doorstep
Chapter 98: The Storm at our doorstepMara moved swiftly through the dimly lit hallway, her coat wrapped tightly around her as she reached the discreet section of the foundation. She use her fingerprint, pausing just long enough for the small slit to slide open before stepping inside.
Valerie stood by the small door. Her expression was unreadable, but Mara could sense the weight of her thoughts even before she spoke.
"I can’t do this anymore," Velaria said without turning around. "I’m done hiding. I want to come out. I want to find my daughter."
Mara exhaled sharply, her steps measured as she approached. "Valerie, you know what a risk that is. Philip is still out there. He’s desperate and dangerous. If he finds out you’re alive—"
"Then let him find out." Valerie turned, her eyes blazing with defiance. "I’ve spent nineteen years looking over my shoulder, running, waiting. For what? For someone else to take him down? I should be the one to do it. He stole everything from me. My freedom, my child, my life! I won’t spend another second in the shadows while he still breathes."
Mara crossed her arms, her face unreadable. "If you step out now, you’re not just risking yourself. You’re risking your child. Do you think Philip won’t use her against you? You need to be smart about this."
"I have been smart. I’ve been patient. But I can’t wait any longer." Velarie’s voice broke slightly, and she took a deep breath to steady herself. "I don’t even know if my daughter remembers me if she even knows I exist. And I won’t find out by staying in the dark."
Mara studied her for a long moment, then sighed. "If you’re really set on this, at least let me and my brothers help you. Let’s be strategic. We don’t just walk out the door and announce to the world that you’re alive. We plan, we prepare, and we make sure Philip has nowhere left to run."
Valerie gave a sad smile. "Just like your mother. But I’m tired of waiting. It’s time I face Philip. No more running. No more hiding."
Mara hesitated, knowing there was no changing Velaria’s mind. Finally, she nodded. "Then let’s make sure we do this right. If we’re going to take him down."
Valerie reached out, gripping Mara’s hand tightly. "Thank you."
...
Mara stepped back into the foundation, her heels clicking against the polished floor as she dialed Vera’s number. The call went straight to voicemail. A frown creased her forehead. That was odd Vera was always in the office at this hour.
She moved swiftly toward Vera’s desk, her senses alert. Something didn’t feel right. The chair was slightly askew, and a few papers were scattered across the floor. Mara’s stomach clenched. She had left Vera here just an hour ago where could she have gone?
Panic crept into her veins as she glanced around,