Chapter 4 - Shadows in the East Wing
The east master suite was larger than Genevieve’s entire Brooklyn apartment. A massive king-sized bed dominated the center of the room, flanked by French doors that opened onto a stone balcony overlooking the churning black waters of the river.
Mrs. Vance had left a tray of tea, fresh clothes, and a set of toiletries on the mahogany writing desk.
Genevieve locked the heavy oak door from the inside, leaning her back against it as she let out a long, shuddering breath. Her hands were finally beginning to tremble. The adrenaline that had carried her through the hotel ballroom and the terrifying car ride was beginning to wear off, leaving a hollow ache in her bones.
She walked over to the window, peering out into the fog. Below, security patrols moved with tactical precision, flashlights sweeping across the manicured gardens.
How did I get here? she asked herself, closing her eyes.
Four days ago, her biggest crisis was a missing seating chart for a tech billionaire’s wedding. Now, she was a captive guest in the home of New York’s most dangerous syndicate boss, holding a secret that could get her killed by a man who had served his family for decades.
A soft knock sounded at the door.
Genevieve froze.
“Miss Sinclair?” Mrs. Vance’s voice called out through the wood. “Mr. Viscanti asked me to bring you this.”
Genevieve cautiously unlocked the door and pulled it open a few inches.
Mrs. Vance stood there holding a heavy, secure satellite phone. “He said you should call whoever you need to call to ensure they don't report you missing. But use the encrypted line. Regular cellular signals are blocked in this wing.”
Genevieve took the phone, her throat tightening. “Thank you, Mrs. Vance.”
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“Mr. Viscanti is a hard man, child,” Mrs. Vance said softly, her eyes holding a deep, sorrowful wisdom. “He’s built like iron because he has to be. But he doesn't bring strangers into this house. If you’re here, it means he intends to keep you breathing. Trust that, for tonight.”
The housekeeper turned and walked down the dimly lit hallway, leaving Genevieve alone with the hum of the secure device.
