politico

Chapter 7 - The Ghost Steps Forward

Vincent Raldi walked into the grand ballroom.

He wasn't hiding behind a hat or coat anymore. He moved down the central aisle with slow, thunderous confidence, flanked by six uniformed officers from the State Special Investigations Bureau.

Behind him walked Delaney, her head held high, the sapphire necklace gleaming under the bright crystal lights.

"You're late for your own signing, Julian," Vincent’s deep voice echoed through the vast hall, cutting through the rising panic like a executioner's blade.

Julian staggered back against the podium, gripping the edges so hard his knuckles turned white. "Vincent?! No... you’re... Marco said—"

"Marco is currently being detained in the West corridor," Vincent said smoothly, stopping five feet from the stage. "Did you really think a shallow grave at Cold Water Bend could hold me?"

"You're a ghost!" Julian screamed, his composure completely shattering as he pulled a small chrome handgun from his tuxedo jacket. "You ruined this family! You held us back with your stupid rules and your old-fashioned morality! I built this deal!"

The crowd shrieked, diving beneath tables as Julian pointed the barrel directly at Vincent’s chest.

Vincent didn't even blink. He didn't step back.

"Put the gun down, Julian," Vincent said softly. "It’s over. The bank accounts are frozen. The city councilors you bribed are already being handcuffed in the lobby. You have nothing left."

May you like

"I have this!" Julian roared, pulling the trigger.

BANG.

Related Stories

Other posts