Thomas didn't flinch. Instead, he lifted his chin, defiance gleaming in his eyes. "You can't threaten me. I'm not afraid of you. The time for your punishment has come. You won't escape this time."
Lydia sneered. "Right now, you should be more concerned about yourself," she taunted, her voice dripping with malice. "You're completely at my mercy. And guess what? Your daughter is on her way here."
Thomas froze. The words hit him like a punch to the gut, knocking the breath from his lungs.
'No. Not Ava.'
Panic surged through him. He thrashed against the ropes, ignoring the sharp burn as the rough fibers cut deeper into his wrists. Desperation fueled his struggle—he had to break free, had to find a way to stop Ava from coming there.
Lydia watched his frantic attempts with cold amusement, satisfaction gleaming in her eyes.