This hothouse flower was a bit too transparent.
I gave a wry smile. “I’m holding you hostage. I know you won’t help me in good faith. It’s fine—you’ll agree later.”
She looked doubtful.
Claire’s grandmother was in her sixties, a bit frail with age.
When the door opened, I pulled Claire tightly into my arms.
Her body went stiff, but she cooperated, hiding in my embrace.
Soon, Mrs. Hamilton Sr. stepped in.
The squad leader—Captain Evans—watched me warily. “What will it take for you to let her go?”
“Captain, I won’t hurt them. I have my reasons,” I said with a bitter smile, quickly closing the door again.
Mrs. Hamilton Sr. sat beside Claire and urged me not to do anything foolish.
I didn’t respond.
