The blizzard began after sunset. Snow buried the roads and pressed white against the windows. The wind howled around the stone house as guards moved through the halls.

Chloe tried to sleep. Leo sat in the armchair near her bed, reviewing security reports.

At nine seventeen, a sharp pain tore through her abdomen. She gripped the bedpost. “Leo.” The file hit the floor. He reached her before her knees buckled.

Another contraction twisted through her body. “It hurts.”

Leo lifted her into his arms. Then an alarm sounded somewhere below them. Vincent’s voice came through Leo’s earpiece. “Vehicles at the south gate. Three, possibly four.

We have it contained.”