Chapter 20 - Protocol Black
The financial district of Chicago was a ghost town by 3:00 AM, but inside the forty-fifth floor of the Reyes tower, it looked like a military command center. Monitors flickered with cascading lines of green code, financial algorithms, and real-time satellite feeds. Marcus and a team of cyber-warfare specialists were working with frantic, synchronized precision.
Elena stood at the panoramic window, watching the distant lights of the city skyline pierce through the lingering mist. The coffee in her hand had gone cold, but she didn't care. The stakes were no longer just their wealth or their business empire; it was their very right to exist in the light, free from the shadows of the past.
Damian walked up behind her, holding two fresh cups of steaming black coffee. He handed one to her, his shoulder brushing hers as he looked out at the city he ruled.
"Protocol Black is fully executed," Damian said quietly. "Every shell company tied to Judge Harrison and 'The Architect' has been flagged, frozen, and reported to the federal oversight committee with undeniable proof of corruption. By the time the sun rises, Harrison will be waking up to a squad of federal marshals at his front door."
Elena turned her head, looking up at him with a mixture of awe and fierce affection. "And 'The Architect'?"
"Marcus traced the origin of the encryption keys to a private estate on the outskirts of Lake Forest," Damian replied, a grim smile touching his lips. "Belonging to a man who was supposed to have died in a car explosion three years ago: Vincent Moretti, Lorenzo’s younger, much more dangerous brother."
Elena’s breath hitched. "He faked his death."
"He did," Damian confirmed, setting his coffee cup down on the windowsill and turning to face her fully, taking both of her hands in his. "Which means this isn't just a corporate battle anymore. This is a war. And tomorrow morning, I am going to end it once and for all."
"I'm going with you," Elena said instantly, leaving no room for argument in her tone.
May you like
Damian stared at her for a long, silent moment, searching her face for any trace of hesitation. Finding none, a deep, resonant rumble of respect vibrated in his chest. He pulled her against his chest, burying his face in her hair. "Then we ride together, my Queen."
***
