Chapter 12 - The Last Hunter
His name was Adrian Vale.
Former military contractor.
Professional fixer.
Victor had hired him repeatedly.
Marcus discovered that Adrian had entered New York two days earlier.
Emily became the obvious target.
Jackson moved her to a secure estate.
She hated it.
“I spent three years hiding.”
“This isn't hiding.”
“There are twelve armed guards.”
“Eleven.”
She almost smiled.
That night, the power failed.
Every light disappeared.
Jackson woke instantly.
“Emily.”
No answer.
He reached her room.
Empty.
The window stood open.
On the bed was a note.
BRING THE ORIGINAL RECORDINGS.
Jackson's blood went cold.
Adrian had taken her.
For three years Jackson had imagined finding Emily.
He had never imagined losing her twice.
Marcus traced a vehicle.
Brooklyn waterfront.
Abandoned warehouse.
Jackson wanted to go alone.
Marcus refused.
“This time we do it correctly.”
Police surrounded the location.
Jackson entered wearing a wire.
Emily sat tied to a chair.
Adrian stood behind her.
“Records.”
Jackson held up the case.
“Let her go.”
Adrian smiled.
“You rich men always think everything is a transaction.”
Emily looked at Jackson.
“Don't give him anything.”
Adrian tightened his grip.
Jackson remained calm.
“You failed three years ago.”
Adrian's smile disappeared.
“You survived because of her.”
“Exactly.”
Jackson looked at Emily.
“She beat you then.”
Emily understood.
She kicked backward.
The chair struck Adrian's knee.
Jackson rushed forward.
Police entered.
Seconds later, Adrian was on the floor in handcuffs.
Jackson freed Emily.
She wrapped her arms around him.
“You came.”
May you like
“Always.”
This time, nobody could separate them.
