The ballroom erupted into chaos.
Gunfire rang out, shattering the crystal chandeliers. Guests screamed, diving for cover behind tables and pillars. The FBI agents who had been planted throughout the venue sprang into action, their weapons drawn, their voices sharp with commands.
But Elara had eyes for only one person: her father.
Richard Vance stood in the center of the chaos, a cold smile on his face. He was surrounded by his men, their guns trained on the crowd. He looked like a king surveying his domain a king who had just declared war.
"Elara," he called out, his voice cutting through the noise. "Come to me. Let's end this."
Julian grabbed her arm, his grip fierce. "Don't. It's a trap."
"I know." She met his eyes, her gaze steady. "But I have to do this. I have to stop him."
"Yo
