𝐅𝐞𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐝 [𝟏𝟖+]✓

36

7K words! The comment goal wasn't met but IDC i'm excited for you guys to read this chapter. Especially the last part. 300 comments and I'll start writing the next one. 

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Cyrus Hudson adjusted his gloves as the snow fell in thick, heavy flakes, the cold biting at his skin. The mansion loomed ahead, its dark silhouette outlined by the faint glow of the moon. From the outside, it seemed serene, untouched, and insulated from the chaos brewing around it. But Cyrus knew better. Inside those walls, Romeo lounged, plotting Hayden's demise. Beside him, Hayden was unflinching. He stood straight-backed, his coat billowing slightly in the icy wind. 

The Bluetooth earpiece in Hayden's ear crackled to life, Kirby's voice cutting through the static, loud enough for Cyrus to hear it. "Perimeter teams are in place, sir. Romeo's men are patrolling, but they haven't detected us yet."

"Then do not give them the chance. Execute Phase One." Hayden's gaze remained fixed on the mansion, his tone icy and precise. 

Cyrus glanced at Hayden as he issued the command, his tone unwavering. The men Hayden had hired were stationed around the property, their black tactical gear blending seamlessly with the shadows. They moved in near silence, cutting power lines and jamming communications. The mansion was plunged into darkness, save for the moonlight reflecting off the snow. For a moment, all was quiet. Then, the first gunshot rang out, shattering the stillness. Gunfire erupted from the mansion as Romeo's guards realized they were under attack. The hired team responded with calculated precision, advancing on the property with military efficiency.

"Suppress the north side. Keep the eastern flank locked down. No one escapes." Hayden spoke into his earpiece, expression unreadable as he stepped forward. Cyrus followed his lead, his eyes scanning the scene. From the shadows, he could see flashes of gunfire and the muffled sounds of shouting. The snow around the mansion was quickly churned up, stained dark in places where bodies fell.

"Efficient," Cyrus muttered, watching as the hired team methodically cleared the perimeter.

Hayden spared him a glance. "It's what I pay them for."

"We've identified Romeo's location—third floor, east wing. He's moving, likely heading for an escape route." Kirby's voice came through again.

 "Cut him off." Hayden's jaw tightened. "Cyrus, with me."

The two men moved toward the mansion, slipping through a side door that one of the operatives had left open. Inside, the air was thick with tension. The distant echo of gunfire was punctuated by the sound of footsteps and occasional shouts. Cyrus's gaze darted around the grand entryway, taking in the opulent decor—dark wood paneling, crystal chandeliers, and an ornate staircase. It was a sharp contrast to the chaos unfolding outside. They ascended the stairs quickly, their steps silent on the plush carpet. 

Hayden's earpiece crackled again. "He's barricaded himself in the study. Five guards with him."

"Not for long." Hayden ordered, "Breach on my signal."

As they reached the study door, the hired men fell into position, their movements precise and disciplined. One of them placed a small charge on the door, stepping back as Hayden gave the signal. The explosion was contained but powerful, the door splintering inward. The guards inside opened fire immediately, but Hayden's men were prepared. They returned fire with ruthless efficiency, forcing the guards to scatter. Cyrus stayed back, letting the professionals do their work. Within minutes, the gunfire subsided, replaced by silence. Hayden stepped into the room, his gaze locking onto Romeo, who stood near a shattered window. The man looked disheveled, his normally composed demeanor replaced with a mix of anger and desperation.