Chapter 26 - Fortress in the Desert
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Within forty-eight hours, our modest suburban home outside Phoenix was transformed into an invisible fortress.
Julian Cross—a broad-shouldered former intelligence officer—arrived with four high-level security specialists. Advanced thermal cameras, motion sensors, and bulletproof reinforced glass were installed seamlessly throughout the property without disturbing the peaceful appearance of the house.
“They expect you to panic, Marcus,” Julian said as we stood near the lemon tree in the backyard, watching the sunset over the desert hills. “They think you’re just a soft real estate heir.”
“I poured concrete foundations for five years, Julian,” I replied, watching the perimeter fence. “I know how to build a wall.”
“My team intercepted a satellite signal originating from a private compound in Hermosillo,” Julian reported, pulling a tablet from his jacket. “A strike team led by a fixer named Vance—Victor Hale’s younger brother—is staging across the Mexican border.”
“Vance Hale,” I repeated the name. “The ghost who ran the cartel side.”
“He wants the digital ledger to clear his own name with the syndicate,” Julian explained. “If he doesn't get it, his own bosses will execute him.”
“Then let him come get it,” I said coldly.
Irene walked out onto the porch, holding a tray of ice water. She looked at Julian, then at me, her posture calm, collected, and supreme.
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“Is everything ready?” Irene asked.
“Everything is ready, Mrs. Sterling,” Julian assured her with a respectful nod. “If Vance Hale comes across that fence tonight, he’ll be walking directly into a federal trap.”
