“There is no one by that name here,” Rafael replied.
Aurora stepped forward, her voice calm but unwavering. “There is. And I am not running anymore.”
The men exchanged glances. The tall one stepped closer. “Miss Kingsley, you are legally deceased. Return quietly and there will be no trouble.”
Aurora lifted her chin. “I have evidence of attempted murder, falsified records, and stolen inheritance. If I disappear again, every file goes to federal investigators.”
For the first time, uncertainty flickered across their faces. One man raised his hand as if reaching for a weapon, but Rafael moved faster, slamming the door and locking it. Aurora was already dialing emergency services.
Minutes later, police sirens pierced the night. The men retreated into their vehicle, but officers intercepted them at the end of the street. Rafael and Aurora watched from the window, hands clasped tightly.