The Day I Kissed An Older Man by Cher the Cherished

They gathered around Henry brazenly and made no effort to conceal their identities from him, which suggested that they did not intend to spare him. His apprehension grew deeper when he realized that. Henry found himself thrown into the room where Lucas and Claudia were held. His heart ached for his daughter's safety, and he ran toward her when he saw that she was alive and well.

"Claudie!" Initially still grappling with despair, Claudia sensed that she heard her father's voice and perked her ears as she sat up.

"Was that my dad's voice? Am I hearing stuff?" Claudia murmured.

Her thoughts were clouded with uncertainty, but Lucas reassured her that she heard correctly. "You heard it right. Your father's here."

"Claudia..." Henry's voice reached Claudia's ears once more, and she heard it crystal clear that time.

Her eyes welled with tears. "Where are you, Dad? Why are you here?! Did you come to rescue us?"

The other captors chuckled mockingly from the doorway as the father and daughter reunited. "Aww, look at that happy reunion. No one's getting rescued, though! Your father's here to keep you company, so just sit tight and enjoy your time in this musty old room!"

was slammed shut, and silence descended

Claudia's voice quivered with emotion. She was still blindfolded, hence

all right? Did they do anything to you?" Henry

her head. "Lucas stopped them

daughter's untouched skin. Her

harmed. His

reassurance to the children, easing

tremendously.

Your grandparents are working hard to secure

She

if it weren't for me," Lucas said. with a guilt-ridden tone. He did not know how to face Henry after knowing that he was the reason why Claudia was dragged into the quagmire. Besides, his grandparents would be safe at home, too, rather than

know what you're thinking, but you're not to blame for this. You're also a victim,"