The Doormat Wife’s Ultimate Glow-Up novel Chapter 418

The two officers standing in the hallway didn’t waste a second. One of them dialed their boss, voice low but urgent.

“Sir, something’s off at Sofia’s place. There are two used glasses on the coffee table, the doormat’s clearly been messed with, and she’s acting super jumpy, barely making sense. We think Nathaniel might be hiding inside. Requesting a search warrant right now, and backup to block every exit. We can’t risk him slipping away.”

The answer came almost before he finished talking. “Approved. The search warrant’s on its way to your phones. SWAT is already rolling. Lock down the entire building. Don’t let Nathaniel escape, no matter what.”

The police kicked into high gear. In less than twenty minutes, five unmarked cars slipped through back streets and parked in the shadows near the apartment building. Officers in plain clothes stepped out, moving fast and quiet, spreading out to cover every entrance, every corner, even the underground garage.

Frank, the SWAT leader, was already at the makeshift command post, all in black and scanning the building’s floor plan. He gave his orders without hesitation.

“Team one, cover the main entrance and the parking garage. Check everyone coming or going. No exceptions. Team two, block off all the fire escapes. I want someone on every floor, keep your heads down and don’t tip him off. Team three…”

He switched to the radio. “Listen up. Nathaniel’s wanted for multiple felonies. He’s armed and extremely dangerous. If you spot him, warn him first. If he resists, you’re cleared to use force, but I want him alive. Understood?”

“Yes, sir!” The answer was sharp and instant. The officers disappeared into the building and the surrounding streets, turning the whole place into a trap with no way out.

…

Inside the apartment, Sofia leaned against the door, forcing herself to stay still until she was sure the hall outside was silent. Only then did she finally stand up straight. She was just about to head to her bedroom when she heard a faint noise from the guest room. Her heart jumped into her throat.

“Douglas is Bailey’s right hand. You knew the box was moved but didn’t even think to ask where? Are you serious?” His frustration burned hot, almost as if her answer was a personal insult.

Sofia’s eyes filled with tears from the pain. She struggled, trying to pull her arm free.

“I swear, I have no idea! Douglas just said the box was moved. He never told me where!” At the time, all she could think about was pinning the blame on Reese so she could get Nathaniel to deal with him. She hadn’t thought any further than that.

Nathaniel stared into her eyes, searching for a lie. But all he saw was fear and pain. Almost without thinking, he eased up on her wrist, just a little.