The hum of engines echoed down the cobbled streets of Riverton, startling the few early risers from their routines. Vendors arranging fresh bread and fruit paused mid-motion, their hands frozen above baskets and crates. At a modest food stall at the corner, Claudia Rivers wiped her flour-dusted hands on her apron, sensing a strange tension in the air. Her daughter, Elise, balanced a plate of steaming stew, frozen in place.
From the main avenue, three sleek black SUVs glided slowly into view, their polished surfaces reflecting the morning sun. Locals whispered nervously. “Who are they waiting for? Some government official?” someone asked. Claudia’s heart thudded. These were not the kind of cars that stopped for ordinary people.
The first SUV door opened. A tall man in a crisp charcoal suit stepped out, exuding wealth and power with every motion. His polished shoes tapped the stone pavement as he approached, flanked by two imposing security guards. The air seemed to hold its breath.
Elise whispered, “Mom… he’s coming here.”