170: The Phone Call

Eric sat in the police station, his mind a whirlwind of fear and frustration. Detectives and officers buzzed around him, discussing strategies and leads, but all Eric could think about was Emily. The clock was ticking, and each passing second felt like a century.

Suddenly, his phone vibrated in his pocket, jolting him from his thoughts. The number on the screen was unknown. With a sinking feeling, he stepped outside the station to take the call, seeking a moment of privacy amidst the chaos.

"Hello?" Eric answered, his voice tense.

"Eric Radcliffe," a cold, mocking voice replied. "Or should I say, Mr. Radcliffe? It's been a while."

Eric's grip tightened on the phone. "Mason," he spat. "What the hell do you want?"

Mason's sinister laugh echoed through the line. "Straight to the point, as always. I have Emily. And if you ever want to see her and your precious baby alive again, you'll do exactly as I say."

Eric's heart pounded in his chest, a mix of rage and terror coursing through him. "