Chapter 2: The Call That Changed the Night
Chapter 2: The Call That Changed the Night
Adrian frowned as the lights flickered.
"It must be the storm," Vanessa said, though her confidence had begun to fade.
My phone buzzed.
A single message from my father appeared.
Stay where you are.
Five minutes later, a line of black vehicles turned through the front gates.
The security guards who had worked at the estate for years straightened immediately.
The lead vehicle stopped.
A gray-haired man stepped out, carrying a leather briefcase.
"I am James Holloway," he announced. "General Counsel for Ashford Holdings."
Adrian laughed.
"I don't know who you think you are, but this is private property."
James calmly opened the briefcase and removed several documents.
"Actually, Mr. Mercer, the ownership of this estate is held by Ashford Holdings."
Adrian's smile faded.
"That's impossible."
"It was placed into a family trust over a decade ago."
He handed Adrian a certified copy.
"You were granted occupancy through your marriage to Ms. Claire Ashford."
"That authorization has now been revoked."
Vanessa grabbed Adrian's arm.
"What is he talking about?"
James didn't raise his voice.
"The trust remained under the control of Ms. Ashford's father. Your access depended on Claire's continued legal status as beneficiary and resident."
Adrian stared at the paperwork.
His hands began to shake.
"No..."
Before he could finish, every electronic lock on the property clicked.
The front gate opened.
Then closed again.
This time, under new authorization.
The head of security approached James.
"Sir, the ownership update has been completed."
James nodded once.
"Thank you."
Then he turned to Adrian.
"You and your guests have one hour to collect your personal belongings under supervision."
"The estate is no longer under your control."
May you like
For the first time since I had arrived home...
Adrian looked afraid.
