Chapter 18 - The Federal CavalryThe heavy timber doors of the lodge burst inward as a squad of federal tactical agents led by Agent Hayes swarmed into the room, rifles raised.
"Nobody move! FBI!" Hayes shouted, scanning the room before his eyes locked onto Moretti tied to the chair and Gabriel standing inches from Chloe.
Hayes lowered his rifle slightly, looking at Chloe with profound shock. "Agent Vance? What the hell is going on here?"
"We just wrapped up your international drug syndicate, Robert," Chloe said steadily, turning to face her commanding officer. "Moretti and his council are finished. The evidence is on that drive."
Hayes stared at Moretti, then at Elena, and finally back at Gabriel. He let out a long, slow breath, shaking his head. "You're a maniac, Chloe. You know that, right?"
"Runs in the family," she replied with a faint, tired smile.
Hayes gestured to his tactical team. "Take Moretti and his men into custody. Get them on the chopper back to Chicago."
As the federal agents hauled Moretti and his bodyguards out into the freezing snow, Hayes lingered for a moment near the door. He looked at Gabriel, then at Chloe, and patted the platinum ring on her finger with a knowing glance.
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"I'll file the paperwork stating you assisted federal agents in an undercover capacity," Hayes said quietly to Chloe. "It covers your operational history. But as for your personal arrangements... that's above my pay grade."
With a crisp nod, Hayes turned and walked out of the lodge, closing the heavy timber doors behind him, leaving Chloe and Gabriel completely alone in the warm, quiet sanctuary of the cabin.
