Chapter 3 - SHADOWS OVER THE VALLEY
The cold night air rolled over the valley, casting long, eerie shadows across the estate’s manicured lawns.
Inside the mansion, a sense of calm had returned, though Sarah remained vigilant. She walked the perimeter of the ground floor, double-checking the locks on every glass door and window. She could not shake the lingering feeling of dread that Victoria’s parting look had left in her mind.
Ethan sat in the nursery upstairs, softly rocking Leo in the wooden glider chair. The baby’s breathing was slow and rhythmic, his small hands resting against Ethan’s chest.
"I'm sorry I ever brought that woman near you, buddy," Ethan whispered softly, kissing the top of his son's head. "I promise, from now on, it's just you, me, and people we can trust."
Downstairs, a faint scratch sounded against the side terrace door.
Sarah stopped in her tracks near the dining room. She listened closely. The wind rustled the high oak trees outside, but underneath the sound of the breeze was the distinctive clink of metal against glass.
Moving silently, Sarah crept toward the kitchen and retrieved a heavy brass candleholder. She approached the terrace door, peeking through the sheer curtains.
Two dark figures in black tactical gear were crouched outside near the basement access hatch. One of them held a large gas canister, while the other was tampering with the estate's main electrical box.
Sarah’s heart hammered against her ribs. Victoria hadn't just given up—she had sent professionals to destroy them.
Sensing immediate danger, Sarah sprinted up the back staircase, avoiding the squeaky steps she knew so well. She burst into the nursery, startling Ethan.
"Mr. Ethan!" Sarah whispered urgently. "There are intruders outside! They have fuel, and they're cutting the power!"
Right on cue, the crystal chandelier in the hallway flickered twice and died. The entire estate was plunged into pitch-black darkness.
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Ethan immediately set Leo down in his mobile carrier and stood up, his jaw set. "Stay behind me, Sarah. The estate has a reinforced panic room in the master suite."
Before they could step out into the hallway, the loud sound of breaking glass echoed from the main floor below, followed by the harsh smell of gasoline rising up the stairwell.
