Chapter 26 - The ReckoningThe heavy wood finally splintered under Julian's desperate strength. He kicked the door open, lunging through the smoke.

Vanessa spun around, her eyes crazed, waving the flaming cloth toward them. "Stay back! Don't come any closer, or I'll burn this entire room to ashes!"
Elena didn't hesitate for a single second. She dove across the room, tackling Vanessa to the floor before the flames could touch the wallpaper. The lighter flew from Vanessa's grip, tumbling onto the wet carpet where the sprinklers quickly extinguished it.
May you like
Julian pulled Lily out from under the bed, wrapping his coat around the trembling girl, holding her tight against his chest. "I've got you, baby. Daddy's here."
On the floor, Elena pinned Vanessa's arms behind her back. "It's over, Vanessa. Your game ends tonight."