ManyWriters

Excruciating pain engulfed my entire body. The agony was unbearable. I let out a muffled groan as the captor pressed his foot onto my hand. "Why isn't he answering?" one kidnapper growled in frustration. "Are we sure we've got the right person?" another questioned. My chest tightened with anguish. I was torn between wanting Ash to answer and hoping he wouldn't, to keep him safe from harm. A piercing cry escaped my lips as my hair was violently yanked. "What's the deal? Why won't he pick up?" Through gritted teeth, I whimpered, "How am I supposed to know his reasons?"

A Desperate Call

My pulse quickened as I peered through the operating room's transparent barrier. I gripped my hands tightly, anxiety coursing through me as I observed the medical team working on Mom. The tempest outside mirrored the turmoil within me.


I barely had a moment to collect myself when Dad approached, his complexion red with fury.


"Astrid, how could you allow her to venture out in this weather?" he lashed out, visibly upset.


Taken aback, I responded, "What? Dad, I had no clue she'd left! I was completely unaware."


Before I could elaborate, Seth intervened, "Dad, Astrid's been at my place these past few days. She's hurt. There's no way she could have known."


Dad's expression shifted as he noticed my wrapped arm and exhausted appearance. His anger dissipated, replaced by remorse. "I apologize, Astrid. I didn't intend to... I was just terrified. What happened to you?"


Chapter 6