Emma
The French countryside villa sat nestled among rolling hills, its stone exterior and wrought-iron gates projecting an impression of timeless security. From the outside, it appeared to be simply another elegant country retreat—not the fortified safe house Dominic had arranged on short notice.
I stood by the window in what had been designated our command center, watching the twins explore the expansive garden under the watchful eye of three security personnel. Lottie had already declared the ancient oak tree "perfect for fairy kingdoms," while Noah methodically measured the garden dimensions with a long piece of string, making careful notations in his ever-present notebook.
"Your mother will be on the secure line in two minutes," James informed me, making final adjustments to the com
