Chapter 5

I woke in the safe house with Leo asleep against my chest. Detective Harris had told me Noah was safe in temporary care while Victoria's role and his custody were investigated. I asked for regular updates; the boy I had raised for three years did not stop mattering because Julian had lied about his blood. The peace lasted only until Marcus set a new phone beside my coffee.

"Julian posted bail at midnight," Marcus said, pointing to the screen. "He froze your cards and bank accounts, then ordered security to keep you out of Vanguard headquarters."

Every account showed the…