Chapter 54 A New Path

• The cool metal of the railing bites into my skin as I lean forward, resting my chin on my knuckles. Sunlight filters through the grand windows above the front entrance, its warmth a sharp contrast to the chill beneath my elbows. From my vantage point atop the staircase, I watch Efrem line up his men with military precision: Matvey, Isaak, Konstantin, Tavin, and Alek. Their black suits and ties create a uniform wall of darkness against the marble floors.
• Efrem’s voice booms through the cavernous entrance hall, each word ricocheting off the high ceilings. “No one comes in or out. The doors remain locked, the alarm system stays on. Temporary military personnel are posted outside. You’re on 24-hour duty until I return.” His eyes drill into each man in turn. “Your priority is my wife’s safety. Is that understood?”
• My heart skips a beat as they respond in unison, “Yes, Master Efrem.”