Chapter 4 - A Gathering of Enemies
Nathaniel crossed his arms, stepping into the center of the hallway to block Vance's path entirely. The air between the two powerful executives grew thick with tension, the security staff standing by looking nervously between the two billionaires.
"You're a long way from your tower, Vance," Nathaniel said, his voice dropping into the quiet, lethal tone he reserved for hostile board takeovers. "And you're certainly nowhere near any children you have legal authority over."
Vance chuckled softly, pulling an official-looking leather folder from his inner pocket. "Don't be reckless, Nathaniel. Clara Vance was my cousin's widow, and by extension, under my estate's wardship. I have full power of attorney signed by Clara herself just three hours ago. The children belong in my care. Hand them over, and we can keep this unpleasantness out of the press."
"Clara never signed anything willingly," Nathaniel snapped. "And if you step one foot closer to that pediatric ward, I will have hospital security and the police drag you out of here in handcuffs."
"Police?" Vance laughed, a dry, cruel sound. "The police chief is on my board of directors, Nathaniel. Do you really want to play this game tonight? You have a massive merger vote tomorrow morning at 8:00 AM. If you're involved in a high-profile child custody dispute or a public brawl in an ER, your board will oust you before the market opens. Walk away. This isn't your fight."
"You're wrong," Nathaniel said, leaning in until he was inches from Vance's face. "This is the only fight that matters. Lily is my daughter."
A momentary flicker of surprise crossed Vance's eyes before being replaced by a dark, sinister sneer. "Is that so? Well, blood tests take days, Nathaniel. But custody orders take minutes when you own the judge. Let's see who holds out longer."
Vance turned to his guards, gesturing toward the doors. "Keep this hospital under surveillance. Nobody leaves with those children." Turning back to Nathaniel, he added, "Enjoy your night, CEO. The clock is ticking."
As Vance walked out into the pouring rain, Renata approached Nathaniel, her face pale. "Nathaniel, who was that man? And what are we going to do? The baby's fever is stabilizing, but she needs to stay in the ICU overnight."
"Renata," Nathaniel said, turning to her with absolute determination. "Call Dr. Marcus in pediatric security. I want this entire floor placed under lockdown. Move Maya to the private VIP wing under my personal account. No visitors without my written authorization. And call my legal team — tell them I need an emergency injunction signed by a judge within two hours."
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He walked back into the consultation room where Lily was waiting. She looked up at him with wide, fearful eyes. "Was that him?" she asked softly.
"Yes," Nathaniel said, kneeling in front of her again and taking her hands in his. "But he will never hurt you or your sister again. I promise you that on my life. Now, Lily... where is your mama right now?"
