Chapter 13 - The Breach in the Meadow
Two days before the preliminary injunction hearing, the quiet safety of the Tennessee farmhouse was shattered.
It was 2:00 AM. A sudden thunderstorm rolled over the rolling hills of Franklin, heavy rain hammering against the tin roof of the porch.
Rowan woke instantly as the silent alarm system vibrated on his nightstand. Three security perimeter beams near the eastern meadow had been cut simultaneously.
"Megan, stay in the panic room with the boys," Rowan whispered, pulling a flashlight and his phone from the nightstand drawer.
"Rowan, no—" Megan grabbed his arm, her eyes wide with fear.
"They aren't here to serve papers, Megan," Rowan said, kissing her forehead deeply. "Lock the door behind me."
Rowan moved through the darkened hallway, meeting the head of his security team, a retired military veteran named Vance (callsign 'Vance Chief').
"Two intruders breached the treeline near the oak tree," the chief reported in a low whisper. "They're carrying black bags. Looks like they were trying to plant electronic bugs or falsified contraband near the foundation's server shed."
Rowan watched the security monitors as two figures moved through the rain toward the outbuilding where the foundation's digital archives were stored.
"Intercept them before they touch the perimeter," Rowan commanded.
May you like
Within ninety seconds, flashlight beams illuminated the dark rain. The security team surrounded the two trespassers, forcing them to the wet grass. When Rowan stepped into the rain, he recognized one of the men immediately—it was Vance’s senior investigator from the District Attorney’s office.
They weren't investigating a crime; they were trying to manufacture one.
