Chapter 234: The Noose Tightens

Chris leaned back in his seat, his fingers tapping lightly against the armrest as the SUV sped through the streets. The night was quiet, but the silence did nothing to dull the weight of what was about to unfold. Skylar thought she had control—she didn't.

Cole was still on the radio, ensuring the lockdown was executed with precision. "Perimeter units in position," he confirmed. "All exits are covered. No movement inside the warehouse yet."

Chris nodded, his mind already working through every possibility. Skylar was smart. Ava was careful. But neither of them were prepared for this.

He picked up his phone again and dialed a direct military line. The response was immediate.

"Mr. President."

"Send seven armored units to Ethan's location. Block every possible escape route. If anything moves, I want to know about it before it takes its next breath."

"Understood, sir. ETA, five minutes."

Chris ended the call, his gaze shifting back to Cole. "I want aerial surveillance. Drones, choppers—if they try to slip through a blind spot, I want them found before they take their next step."

Cole smirked slightly. "You're making sure there's no chance, huh?"

Chris exhaled slowly, eyes unreadable. "I don't gamble with outcomes, Cole. I shape them."

The convoy moved swiftly, escorted by unmarked security vehicles. Every streetlight they passed illuminated the cold, calculated resolve on Chris's face.

His phone buzzed again. A message from Ethan.

"They're still inside. No movement. I'll be waiting."

Chris smirked. Good. Let them think they still have time.

He glanced at his watch. Five minutes until arrival. Five minutes until Skylar realized there was no way out.

Chris closed his eyes for a brief moment, letting the weight of it settle.

This wasn't just a capture. It was a message.

One Skylar wouldn't forget.