Alexander’s private study felt like a fortress during the lockdown—thick walls, reinforced windows, and security systems that probably rivaled government facilities. We sat in comfortable leather chairs, watching news coverage of the academy lockdown on his wall-mounted television while waiting for updates about the mysterious package.
“Local authorities are investigating a suspicious delivery at the prestigious Ashwick Academy,” the news anchor was saying. “The campus remains under lockdown while explosive device experts examine the contents.”
“Explosive device experts,” I repeated. “This is really serious.”
“Julian’s been receiving escalating threats for weeks. Someone was bound to take it to the next level eventually.”
Alexander’s phone buzzed with an incoming call, and he answered
