Chapter 236: The Arrival

The low rumble of approaching engines filled the air, growing louder with each passing second. Skylar's breath hitched as she stepped back from the window. He was here.

Ava tensed beside her. "That's his convoy," she muttered. "We're out of time."

Outside, seven armored military vehicles were already stationed in a tight perimeter, their headlights cutting through the darkness like unyielding sentinels. Black SUVs rolled in behind them, forming an unbreakable wall of steel and power.

And then—he stepped out.

Chris Blackwood.

Dressed in a tailored black coat, he moved with the slow, deliberate confidence of a man who already knew the outcome. The city belonged to him. The power, the control—everything bent to his will.

A cold shiver ran through Skylar's spine as she watched him approach, his men falling into place around him like shadows. He wasn't here to negotiate. He was here to end this.

Ava pulled out her gun, but Skylar grabbed her wrist. "No."

Ava's eyes flashed. "Skylar—"

"If you shoot, we don't walk out of here alive," Skylar whispered harshly.

Ava hesitated, then exhaled sharply, lowering the weapon.

Outside, Chris stopped just a few feet from the entrance. He lifted his phone and made a single call.

Skylar's phone vibrated in her pocket.

She didn't want to answer. But she had no choice.

Slowly, she pulled it out and pressed it to her ear.

"Skylar," his voice was smooth, controlled. Dangerous.

Her throat tightened. "Chris."

He exhaled, almost amused. "You've had your fun. It's over. Come out."

Skylar's grip on the phone tightened. No. She wasn't ready to surrender.

Chris continued, his voice calm but unyielding. "Or I'll come in."

Silence.

Skylar looked at Ava.

Ava shook her head. No way out.

Outside, Chris lifted his hand.

A single gesture.

And his men moved.