Chapter 3 - Shadows on the Porch
Julian arrived at Clara’s secluded coastal bungalow just as twilight gave way to an oily dusk. The home sat perched on an overcast bluff, surrounded by sea oats that whipped in the coastal wind.
From fifty yards away, Julian parked his sedan in the treeline. His tactical instincts took over. A black SUV with tinted windows was idling down the lane with its lights cut. Dominic’s vultures were already circling.
Dominic Cole had once been Julian’s employer—the head of a ruthless criminal syndicate who believed Julian stole millions when he disappeared. In reality, Julian had simply refused to take a single blood dime. But Dominic was a paranoid tyrant; he believed Clara had inherited Julian’s hidden wealth.
Julian slipped through the backyard shadows, bypassing the gravel driveway. The back door was unlocked. Inside, the scent of lavender and baby powder clashed with the bitter sting of ozone.
In the living room, Evelyn was frantic, packing suitcases by the dim light of a kitchen lamp. Lily sat quietly on an ottoman, still wearing her yellow raincoat, clutching a worn stuffed bunny.
“Packing light, Evelyn?” Julian’s low voice cut through the silence.
Evelyn shrieked, dropping a stack of children's clothes. She grabbed a heavy brass lamp, her face contorted in sheer terror. “Stay back! You stay away from her! You’re the reason Clara died with her heart ruined! You brought the wolves to our door!”
“I didn’t know,” Julian said, keeping his hands open and raised. “I swear to you, Evelyn. Clara never told me.”
Lily looked up from her bunny. She tilted her head, her bright eyes recognizing him instantly. “The sad mister from the flowers.”
Julian’s chest seized. He dropped to one knee, keeping his gaze level with the child. “Hi, Lily.”
“Why do you have pictures on your hands?” she asked gently, pointing to his inked fingers.
May you like
“Lily, shut up and get behind me!” Evelyn hissed, her voice cracking.
“Evelyn,” Julian warned, his tone suddenly dropping into an icy register. “Look out the front window. The SUV parked down the road isn't local police. Dominic’s men are waiting for the sun to set. If you step out that front door alone, you’re dead, and Lily ends up in a shipping container.”
