"What?" The news was unexpected and everyone around the table froze, stunned by what Edward had just said. His voice was barely audible, so only the people sitting close to him heard the shocking revelation.Richard Balmore, who had been listening intently to Edward's words, stood up from his seat and approached him. "Kidnapping in my building? That's impossible. We have top-notch security here. Let's check the CCTV footage and see what happened."Edward nodded and the group quickly made their way to the security room, but before leaving, he asked everyone who heard him to keep this a secret. Once in the security room, Richard instructed his staff to check the cameras on the floor where Brenda was last seen. Edward watched anxiously as they went through the footage. After a few minutes, one of the security personnel spoke up."We've found the footage, sir. Two men came into the building and took her away. We don't recognize them, but they were wearing symbols on their clothes that s
The guard examined Edward's black card carefully and reluctantly stepped aside, gesturing for him to follow. As they walked through the opulent mansion, Edward could not help but feel a sense of unease. The corridors were lined with armed guards, and he could hear faint whispers and murmurs echoing through the halls.Finally, they arrived at a massive oak door, guarded by two more men armed with submachine guns. The guard signaled to them, and the door creaked open, revealing a spacious room bathed in warm light. A tall, broad-shouldered man with slicked-back hair and a stern expression was seated behind a mahogany desk."Welcome, Mr. Windsor," he said in a deep, gravelly voice. "I am Josh Greed. What brings you to my humble abode?"Edward took a deep breath and tried to appear confident. "I'm here to inquire about a woman named Brenda. She was abducted a few hours ago, and I believe she might be in danger."Josh Greed raised an eyebrow, and a hint of amusement flickered in his eyes.
Edward returned to his room at Hotel Arial. He needed to shower and freshen up before continuing with his plans. Once he was cleaned up, Edward sat down at his desk and picked up the phone. He dialed the number of his contact, Richard Balmore. After a few rings, Richard picked up."Richard, it's Edward. I need some information.""Of course. What can I help you with?""I need to know who the police chief is in York City."There was a pause on the other end of the line. Richard did not know about Brenda's current situation, so he thought that Edward would violate the kidnapper's request by contacting the police. "Why do you need to know that?""I have my reasons. I need to get in touch with him. Oh, and one more thing. Can you give me his phone number, if you have it?"Another pause before Richard relented and gave Edward the number. "The current police chief is a man named Thomas Davis . But I don't recommend getting involved with the police, Edward. It's not worth the risk.""I'll ta
Brenda blushed and looked away, feeling slightly embarrassed. "It's nothing, Dad. Just a friend. He was supposed to come by and visit me, but I guess he's busy with work."Hank chuckled and patted his daughter's hand. "I'm just teasing you, honey.""I'm glad you're okay, sis. Don't scare us like that again, okay?"Brenda smiled weakly. "I won't, I promise."Sophie's curiosity got the best of her and she decided to speak up. "You know what? I was really surprised when we found out that you were put in the VVIP room. Dad even felt a bit dizzy thinking about the cost. But then, Doctor James said that the hospital was covering all the expenses. I just couldn't believe it. When did the VVIP room start taking in patients for free? Sister, did your boyfriend pay for the room? Is that why you looked disappointed when you didn't see him?"Brenda's face turned even redder as she tried to avoid her sister's questioning gaze. "No, it's not like that. It's a long story, and I'll tell you later, ok
Edward extended his hand to shake Hank's and Sophie's, but he could not shake the feeling that he was being watched. He looked around the room once more, but everything seemed normal. He decided to brush it off as paranoia and focus on the conversation."It's good to meet you both," Edward said with a small smile. "Brenda is a remarkable employee, and I'm glad she has such a supportive family."Hank and Sophie exchanged a glance, clearly impressed with Edward's choice of words. "Well, it's good to know that Brenda is in good hands," Hank said, returning Edward's smile.Sophie, on the other hand, had a mischievous glint in her eye. "So, Mr. Edward," she began, "Brenda didn't tell us much about you. "So, what kind of company do you work for exactly?Edward hesitated for a moment, unsure of how much to reveal. He decided to keep it vague for now. "Oh, I own a few companies here and there."Sophie raised an eyebrow, clearly intrigued. "Really? What kind of companies?"Edward let out a s
Brenda was grateful to be finally heading home after her traumatic experience. She leaned back into the seat of the taxi and took in the cool night breeze as it blew in through the open window. Sitting next to her was Edward, and she could not help but feel a little out of place. She had hoped to either head home by herself or have her father pick her up after her unexpected events. However, Edward was insistent on accompanying her.Edward seemed to have something important to discuss with her father, and she did not want to push him away. She reluctantly agreed although she could not help feeling a bit annoyed that she was not getting her way.Edward, meanwhile, was brooding. His mind focused on something else entirely. "I'm tired of taking taxis," he muttered to himself, breaking the silence that had descended between them.Brenda could not help but laugh at his sudden outburst. "What's so funny?" Edward asked, putting on a fake angry expression."Why wouldn't I laugh?" Brenda gig
Brenda took a deep breath, her mind racing with conflicting thoughts and emotions. On one hand, she was drawn to Edward and the happiness he could offer her. On the other hand, she was terrified of the potential risks involved.She looked at her father, who had always been her rock, and saw the worry etched on his face. She knew that her father only wanted what was best for her and her sister. But, she also knew that she could not just let go of her feelings for Edward."I... I don't know, Sophie," she stammered, feeling lost and overwhelmed. She looked at her father and hoping for some guidance.Hank's expression softened as he looked at his daughter. "Brenda, I want you to be happy, but I also want you to be safe. If you choose to pursue a relationship with Edward, I won't stop you. But please, be careful. And if at any point you feel like something isn't right, don't hesitate to come to us. We will always be here for you."Brenda felt tears welling up in her eyes as she hugged her
Adele felt a flutter in her stomach at the sound of Edward's voice. It was as smooth and commanding as ever.She sat up straight, clutching her phone tightly. "I'm doing fine. How about you? I heard you've been in some dangerous situations recently.""Don't worry about me, but it's nice to know you care. Adele, I heard from James that you've been worried about me. Is everything okay?" Edward's voice was gentle, and Adele could sense his concern.Her heart raced as she struggled to find the right words. She had been worried about him, yes, but it was not just that."I... I just wanted to make sure you were okay after what happened with Brenda, that's all," she stammered.There was a moment of silence on the line, and Adele worried that she had said something wrong. But then she heard Edward's gentle voice again. "That's very kind of you, Adele. Thank you. But if there's anything else that's been bothering you, you can tell me. I'm here for you."Adele's heart swelled with gratitude at