Claimed By The Mafia Rogue King (Snow and Cupid) novel Chapter 264

On a normal basis, when a cold case or any case at all was reopened and ongoing, reporters swarmed H.O.W.L. from brim to brim, cameras flashing, questions shouted like weapons. But today nothing. Empty steps. Silent entrance. I already knew why.

The Daylights.

Sitting at the top of their influential throne, sealing lips across every channel. Even Sweet Gossip Feed, managed by Claudia had barely survived airing it before it vanished.

I alighted from my car after parking and headed up toward the entrance. Inside the building, I caught the glances, whispered, sidelong, lingering.

I tried to ignore them. Rumors still circulated about me being crazy, all thanks to my sister from my human father’s careful words.

I stepped into the elevator and pressed the button for the top floor where the meeting would take place. The doors chimed shut. I stared at the blank metal wall in front of me, reflection distorted, almost unrecognizable.

This is it, Snow.

This is it.

I stepped out at last, turned the corner and walked straight into the lighted hall.

Through the transparent glass door, I saw everyone had already arrived, waiting. All staff from each department.

Setting eyes on Eshan after weeks, right on my birthday felt like a miracle. I hadn’t realized how much I’d missed my brother until now, until the ache hit fresh and deep.

I pushed the door open quietly and stepped in.

Everyone turned, their eyes on me and I bow in unison to pay my greetings. Sera walk up to me and offer me a brief hug while I smile to her.

Then I turn to Eshan with a smile but he walk closer to place a soft kiss on my temple then pull back so we can all focus.

The Dark Alley case was about me and now it was what we’d work on.

My gaze swept the room, landing on the big screen ahead. The image from that night stared back. Grainy, haunting.

I tried to breathe. Quietly, I shifted my focus to the Alpha of Castle Pack, the director of H.O.W.L., seated at the head.

Before him sat a worn–out file, yellowed with age. The design wasn’t the one we used now. I swallowed hard when I saw the faded writing on it.

“Hello, everyone,” he began, voice quiet but commanding. We bowed in greeting. “Thank you all for being here. I apologize for calling this impromptu meeting on Christmas Day, but it was vital I address you.”

He sighed, nodding toward the screen.

“As of midnight, the Dark Alley case has been reopened. Stamped and sealed. But given the circumstances, this being a highly

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Chapter 264

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sensitive case, we won’t have long. We faced immense pressure even before it was jerked open. This must be resolved before New Year’s Day midnight, or it closes forever.”

Goosebumps rushed across my skin.

Before I could dwell, he continued, accepting a file from his deputy director, Mr. Sonny.

“This case is dangerous, I can assure you all, and it will be bloody. So I’m giving you grace right now. If any of you want out, this is the time.”

Tension flared immediately. thick, electric, making me swallow hard.

We knew what happened last time here in H.O.W.L. Death and blood would surround this case. I knew Feroz wouldn’t give in quietly. Not Viviana. Not Ares.

Silence passed.

At last, from the profiling department, the woman who made our team four stepped back, announcing her withdrawal.

A few seconds ticked.

Then all from forensics stepped back, except one elderly woman.

In prosecution, all moved except for Vast the assistant and Eshan as head stood firm.

On the detective team, only Wrinks stayed.

I swallowed, realizing the stakes.

Mr. Gerald, Quince, and I from profiling. Wrinks alone from detectives. Sera and one member from forensics. Eshan and Vast from prosecution.

Eight in total,

That’s enough, right?

“You all can evacuate the room now,” Mr. Castle said politely. “Enjoy your vacation. Merry Christmas.”

We watched them leave.

When they were out of earshot, he set his jaw, turned to us.

All business.

He placed the file from Mr. Sonny on the table, flipped it open, and signed.

“Eshan, you head this operation not with emotion, but with a straight head. Resources will be provided. I’ll monitor from beginning to end. What do you all say?”

Mr. Gerald raised his hand.

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