Chapter 15 - The Masquerade
The Chateau de Valois loomed in the Parisian countryside like a beautiful, terrifying fortress. The grand driveway was lined with million-dollar hypercars and heavily armed private security posing as valets. The Solstice Masquerade was in full swing.
Dominic and Hannah stepped out of their armored Maybach, immediately commanding the attention of the courtyard. Dominic wore a bespoke black tuxedo that perfectly masked the ballistic vest underneath, his face partially hidden by an elegant, matte-black Venetian mask.
Hannah was breathtaking. She wore a floor-length, deep emerald silk gown with a daring slit up the thigh, allowing her absolute freedom of movement. Her dark hair was swept up into an intricate style, and a glittering silver mask covered her eyes. Hidden securely in a specialized thigh holster under her dress were three small vials of liquid nitrogen and a suppressed tactical pistol. She was no longer a disgraced surgeon hiding in a maid’s uniform. She was a queen stepping onto the battlefield.
They moved through the opulent ballroom, surrounded by the most dangerous and wealthy criminals in Europe. Waiters carried trays of vintage champagne, while string quartets played hauntingly beautiful classical music.
"Keep your heart rate steady," Dominic whispered, pressing a light kiss to her temple as they glided across the marble floor. "Her security chief is standing by the grand staircase. Two mercenaries by the champagne fountain."
"I see them," Hannah replied softly, her sharp eyes mapping the exits and structural weak points of the room. "The auction will happen in the subterranean wine cellar. It is the only room in this chateau with climate control advanced enough to store the toxins."
Suddenly, the crowd parted, and the music slowed to a dramatic halt.
Vanessa Whitmore descended the grand staircase. She wore a blindingly white gown covered in diamonds, looking like an angel of death. A delicate white lace mask covered her eyes, but her venomous, triumphant smile was unmistakable. She looked directly at Dominic and Hannah, raising her champagne glass in a mocking toast.
"Welcome, Dominic," Vanessa's voice carried clearly through the hushed ballroom. "I was worried you wouldn't have the courage to cross the ocean."
Dominic stepped forward, his presence radiating an overwhelming, lethal authority that made the surrounding billionaires instinctively back away. "I always finish what I start, Vanessa. Even when it requires cleaning up the trash."
Vanessa's smile faltered for a fraction of a second, her eyes flashing with pure hatred. She turned her gaze to Hannah, looking her up and down with sneering disgust. "And you brought your little nurse. How quaint. I hope you brought your medical kit, Doctor. You are going to need it."
May you like
Hannah didn't flinch. She offered Vanessa a calm, chillingly polite smile. "I always come prepared, Vanessa. Though I doubt there is a cure for your particular condition."
Vanessa's jaw tightened. "Follow me to the cellar, Dominic. Let us discuss the future of your empire."
