The aftermath of the ambush lingered like a storm cloud over the estate. Though Caden’s men had succeeded in neutralizing the mercenaries, it became clear this was just a taste of Kelly and Levi’s larger plans. I could feel the weight of their hatred pressing down on me, but it only fueled my determination to destroy them.
A Growing Divide
The days following the ambush were tense. Caden had doubled security around the estate, but the atmosphere was fraught with worry. Nico, ever the pragmatist, kept reminding us that Kelly and Levi were still out there, regrouping.
“They’ll strike again,” he said during one of our nightly strategy sessions. “They won’t stop until they’ve taken everything you have, Ashley.”
I clenched my fists, my nails digging into my palms. “Then I’ll make sure they h
