Chapter 29: The Ultimatum
Emily's heart was racing as she processed the menacing voice on the other end of the line. Victor Wright's words echoed in her mind, sending a chill down her spine.
"Emily, you're running out of time. Meet me at the old warehouse at midnight if you want to see your father alive again."
Ben's eyes were locked on Emily's face, his expression concerned. "What is it?" he whispered.
Emily took a deep breath, trying to calm her racing heart. "It's Victor Wright," she said, her voice barely above a whisper. "He wants me to meet him at the old warehouse at midnight."
Ben's face darkened, his eyes flashing with anger. "We're not going to let him dictate what we do," he said, his voice firm.
But Emily's father was more cautious. "We need to think this through," he said, his eyes locked on Emily's face. "Victor Wright is not someone to be underestimated."
As they discussed their next move, Emily couldn't shake off the feeling of unease. She knew that Victor Wright was capable of anything, and she worried about what might happen if they didn't comply with his demands.
But Ben was resolute. "We're not going to give in to his demands," he said, his voice firm. "We'll find another way to rescue your father."
Emily's father nodded, a small smile on his face. "I think Ben's right, Emily. We need to be brave and take a stand against Victor Wright."
As they continued to discuss their plan, Emily felt a surge of determination. She was ready to face whatever dangers lay ahead, as long as she had Ben and her father by her side.
But just as they were about to finalize their plan, Emily heard a faint noise coming from outside. It sounded like footsteps, light and cautious.
Emily's heart skipped a beat as she realized that someone was approaching the safe house. She turned to Ben and her father, her eyes wide with fear.
"What was that?" she whispered.
Ben's eyes were locked on the door, his expression serious. "I don't know," he said, "but we need to be ready."
As they waited in silence, Emily's heart pounded in her chest. She knew that they were in grave danger, and she wondered if they would make it out alive.
And then, just as they were about to make their move, the door burst open and a figure walked in. It was Alex, Ben's brother.
"Alex, what are you doing here?" Ben asked, his eyes narrowed.
Alex's expression was serious. "I've come to warn you," he said. "The Wrights are closing in. We need to get out of here, now."