Chapter Ten

The silence in the room was so cold that they could hear their heartbeat, making everything feel even more profound.

The henchmen all focused on their leader, waiting for him to respond to Mr. Smith.

The leader took a deep breath, more like engaging himself in a breathing exercise just to calm himself before speaking.

"Mr. Smith," he began, his voice carrying a hint of nervousness, who wouldn’t be nervous? Only those who don't know how dangerous the almighty Smith is.

"We executed the plan perfectly. We had Ryan cornered, just as we had anticipated. It was supposed to be a straightforward operation."

As he spoke, Mr. Smith's gaze remained locked onto him, who pressed on despite the growing unease in him.

"But then,” he paused, swallowing hard the recollection of the perplexing turn of events still fresh in his mind, he continued, "out of nowhere, sir, a sharp, blinding light, bright enough to blind the eyes engulfed Ryan. It surrounded him, and, I must admit, we couldn't perceive i