The heavy wooden doors at the entrance burst open.

A formidable older man in a long dark coat strode into the room, surrounded by an army of silent enforcers.

Chapter 5 - THE EXTRACTION.

Chaos erupted as my father's men moved with lethal efficiency.

Screams filled the air, replacing the classical music that had been playing moments before.

Strong hands lifted me gently from the floor, shielding my torn dress and my unborn child.

My father’s eyes met mine for only a fraction of a second, but it was enough to communicate his absolute fury.

I was ushered out the back doors, the sounds of destruction echoing behind me.

They placed me in the back of an armored SUV, the leather seats cold against my bruised skin.

I wrapped my arms protectively around my stomach, praying the baby was unharmed.

But as the adrenaline began to fade, a new, terrifying realization seized my heart.

Chapter 6 - THE EMPTY HOUSE.

The drive back to the estate felt like an eternity.

Tires screeched as the convoy breached the front gates, tearing up the immaculate lawn.

I threw the car door open before we even came to a complete stop.

I ran through the massive front doors, screaming my daughter's name.

The house was completely silent, holding its secrets in the shadows.

I tore through every room, overturning furniture and tearing down curtains in my frantic search.