Chapter 31, The Standoff

Chapter Thirty One; The Stand Off.

The Chicago Police Department was known for their quick response and diligence.

As soon as Stephany's call came through, the new subordinate almost dismissed it as a mistake.

Fortunately, Corner, the seasoned head of the police department, was present.

With twenty years of service under his belt, he knew that such calls were often the most serious, potentially signaling that someone was in grave danger but unable to speak.

Corner immediately ordered the call to be traced.

The team sprang into action, their experience and efficiency shining through.

They tracked the phone's location and raced towards the address.

Simultaneously, Chris arrived at Bradley's spare house, his heart pounding with fear for Stephany and with determination to save her.

He was just about to scale the fence when he heard the commanding voice through the megaphone.

"Freeze! Stop and come down or we'll shoot,"

Corner's authoritative voice boomed through the night.