Chapter 6 - Counterstrike
At seven o'clock on Christmas morning, a dark SUV pulled into Emily's driveway. Marcus, Gavin's head of security—a broad-shouldered man with a military fade and an unreadable expression—stepped out, followed by two armed security guards in plain clothes.
Gavin met Marcus at the front door, stepping out onto the chilly porch while closing the door behind him to keep the warm air inside.
"The perimeter is secure, Mr. Rowan," Marcus reported efficiently. "Two men stationed on the street, one in the rear alley. No unauthorized vehicles will get within three hundred yards of this property."
"Good work, Marcus," Gavin said. "Did Vance receive the files?"
"Yes, sir. Mr. Vance has already filed an emergency injunction with the Federal District Court in Seattle. Federal marshals have been notified of the extortion charges and the wire fraud evidence. They're preparing an arrest warrant for Pendelton right now."
Gavin checked his watch. It was 7:15 AM. "Arthur expects me to call him at noon to negotiate my resignation. We're going to speed up his timeline."
Gavin pulled his smartphone from his coat pocket and dialed Arthur's private number. It rang twice before Arthur answered, his voice smooth and arrogant.
"Gavin," Arthur drawled over the line. "I didn't expect to hear from you so early on Christmas morning. Have you made your decision? The board is eager to hear of your resignation."
"I'm at Emily's house, Arthur," Gavin said calmly. "I think you should come over. Let's sign the paperwork face-to-face."
A quiet chuckle came from Arthur's end. "Smart man. I knew you’d prove logical when your family's dynamic was on the line. I'll be there in twenty minutes."
"Bring your legal counsel," Gavin added smoothly. "We want everything wrapped up neatly, don't we?"
"Indeed we do," Arthur replied before hanging up.
Gavin lowered the phone, a cold, icy smile gracing his lips. He turned to Marcus. "Tell your men to stay out of sight until I give the word. When Arthur steps onto this porch, I want him completely unaware of what's coming."
Gavin walked back inside the house. Emily was sitting on the sofa, nursing Noah with a light blanket draped over her shoulder. She looked up at Gavin, her eyes wide with anxiety.
May you like
"He's coming?" she asked softly.
"He's coming," Gavin confirmed, walking over to sit beside her. He reached out, gently stroking the soft fuzz on Noah's head. "And by eight o'clock this morning, our nightmare will be over."
