CHAPTER ONE HUNDRED AND FORTY SEVEN - The Hidden Threat

The next day passed in a haze of anxiety and dread. Ella couldn't focus on anything, her mind constantly drifting to the impending midnight meeting. Lucas worked from home, his eyes darting between his laptop and the security feeds every few minutes. As evening approached, Lucas revealed his plan. "I've hired a private security team," he said, his tone leaving no room for argument. "They'll be here within the hour." Ella's eyes widened in disbelief. "Lucas, don't you think that's a bit... extreme?" "Nothing is too extreme when it comes to your safety," he replied firmly. True to his word, a team of four stern-faced individuals arrived shortly after, dressed in nondescript clothing but with an unmistakable air of authority. Lucas introduced them as former military personnel, now working in private security. As midnight drew nearer, the tension in the house became almost unbearable. Ella paced restlessly, while Lucas huddled with the security team, going over their strategy one last