The rain outside began to beat harder against the glass, a steady, rhythmic drumming.

Inside the office, the silence was thick and heavy.

Julian looked down at his tablet again, his thumb scrolling quickly.

“We have another problem,” Julian said, his voice cutting through the tension.

“The security guard at the gate just radioed.”

“A black sedan just picked up Olivia at the side entrance.”

“They are leaving the property.”

I spun around to face Julian, my chest tightening.

“Where are they going?” I demanded.

“I don’t know,” Julian said.

“But the car is registered to a private transport company.”

“One that your family uses, Margaret.”

I turned back to Ethan, stepping close enough to see the sweat beaded on his forehead.

“Ethan, look at me,” I said, my voice cracking.

“That is my son.”

“He has my eyes, Ethan.”

“You know what she did is wrong.”

“Tell me where they are taking him.”

Ethan stared at me, his mouth slightly open.

He looked younger than his years, small and entirely defeated.

His eyes darted to Margaret, who stood like a statue of ice in the center of the room.