The Kiss that Sparked it All

Chapter 2603

“No, Daddy, please don’t go,” Mara sobbed, collapsing to the floor in a heap, feeling utterly powerless as she watched Elton’s retreating figure.

Why? Am I not your child too? Why is it always Victoria you choose over me?

Her eyes clenched shut, tears streaming down her cheeks, a silent testament to her anguish.

The school counselor noticed Mara’s distress and gently helped her to her feet.

“There, there, don’t you worry. Your dad will come back safe and sound,” she said, handing Mara a cup of water to soothe her cold hands.

Though her words were comforting, everyone knew the risks involved were immense. Even police officers couldn’t guarantee a safe return from such situations, let alone an unarmed middle-aged man like Elton. He was clearly prepared for the worst.

bustling about, making arrangements for what was to come. They could only accompany Elton part of the way. As they neared the designated meeting spot, they had to stop.

officer clapped Elton on the shoulder before he left the safety of the police cruiser. “We’ll be hiding out nearby, don’t you worry. We’ll do everything

nodded, his jaw set with determination, and restarted the engine of his

soon as Elton stepped out of his car, he was ambushed by not one but

are you doing? I’ve brought the ransom, so you can’t do this!” Elton shouted desperately.

officers, who were stationed a fair distance away, sprinted toward the commotion upon hearing his cries. But the kidnappers were quicker, knocking Elton out cold and speeding away with

a group of dumbfounded officers and

palpable. “These crooks

command post, Captain Aidan had been following the developments. He was silent for a moment before responding icily, “Indeed, they are taunting us. Get a team to check on all the ex-cons

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“Roger that!”

Alyssa and Dean looked grim, and Mara was holding her breath,