Chapter 7 - The Inferno Cleared
“Julian, secure the perimeter and clear the back exit for the guests,” Vincent ordered sharply, never lowering his weapon.
“On it, boss,” Julian replied, gesturing to the security team to usher the terrified patrons safely through the rear service corridors toward the alleyway.
Within two minutes, the dining room was empty of civilian life, save for Mara and Rory, who were huddled safely behind the heavy oak bar.
Vincent walked slowly toward the kneeling, wounded gunman, keeping his weapon trained on the man's chest. He reached down, grabbed the edge of the ski mask, and ripped it off, revealing the terrified, sweaty face of a young enforcer named Frankie Moretti—Dante’s cousin.
“Tell Sal and his grandson something for me,” Vincent said softly, leaning down until his face was inches from Frankie’s sweating brow.
“Wh-what... what do you want me to say?” Frankie stammered, clutching his bleeding leg.
“Tell them that River North belongs to the law now,” Vincent whispered, his voice dripping with lethal finality. “Tell them that anyone who touches a hair on a working mother or a little girl in this city will answer directly to me. And tomorrow morning, I’m coming for their entire downtown portfolio.”
Vincent straightened up, turning away as federal marshals—summoned by Julian’s silent panic button—poured into the bistro through the rear door to take the domestic terrorists into federal custody.
Mara stepped out from behind the bar, her breath coming in ragged gasps, her hands trembling as she held Rory tightly against her hip. She walked over to Vincent, who was calmly sliding his firearm back into his shoulder holster.
“Mr. Kane...” Mara whispered, tears spilling over her lashes. “You saved us again.”
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Vincent looked down at Mara, then at little Rory, who was peeking out from her mother’s shoulder, holding up her crayon box like a shield.
“Mrs. Carter,” Vincent said quietly, his rigid demeanor softening just a fraction. “You didn't need saving. Your daughter drew the map. I just followed it.”
