Chapter 27

The tension increased as Xander and Isabella got closer to learning the truth about Xander's mother. They had grown incredibly dependent on one another, overcoming every challenge together. However, they were unaware that treachery was far closer than they had thought.

AN UNLIKELY FRIEND

As Xander and Isabella worked to solve the mystery surrounding his mother's disappearance, they got a surprise message from James Grayson, an old friend of Xander's who had been distant for years but had once been like a brother to him. James, who is now a prosperous businessman, claimed to know where Xander's mother was being held and sent cryptic information.

Xander consented to meet James despite his suspicions and his need for clarification. They sat away from the city's prying eyes at a darkly lit restaurant.

James smiled casually as he leaned back in his chair and added, "I didn't think you'd come."

"James, I don't have time for games," Xander said icily. "Tell me if you know anything."

James lowered his voice and leaned forward. "I have been monitoring your dad. There are others with links than him. Although I am aware of your mother's location, it will be difficult to reach her. She is being closely watched.

Xander's mouth clenched. "Where is she?"

A sheet of paper was slid across the table by James. "The address is this. It is a highly secured private estate. If you want to get her out safely, you'll need a plan.

With his thoughts racing, Xander accepted the paper. However, something about this felt off. Why now? Why would James suddenly volunteer to help after remaining silent for years?

THE SECRET REVEALED

Isabella and Xander sat together that evening and went through the information James had provided. Far from the city, the address led to a secluded estate. It matched the description of a location where a person like Alexander Blackwood might conceal a secret.

"Are you sure you trust him?" Isabella enquired, a worried frown on her face.

Xander gave a headshake. "No. I can't ignore this, though. I must find out whether there is any possibility that my mother is present.

Isabella gave a nod. "We'll exercise caution. We'll organise every aspect.

But Xander's phone buzzed as they were getting ready. The SMS message came from an unidentified number.

"Watch who you put your trust in." Everyone is not who they appear to be.

Xander's heart froze. He showed Isabella the message.

"Who sent this?" Her voice was tremulous as she enquired.

"I'm not sure," Xander answered. "But it looks like someone is watching us."

THE ACTUAL TRAITOR

Xander's uneasiness increased as they got ready to go to the mansion. He couldn't pinpoint the reason why something didn't add up. He hadn't paused to think about whether someone else in his life was against him because he had been so preoccupied with his father's betrayal.

Then, hours before their scheduled departure, Isabella heard a conversation that would alter their entire course of events.

She heard the distinct sound of James' voice on the phone late at night while Xander was in another room. She heard enough of his whispered words to realise that something was seriously off.

"He has great faith in me.Sure, I'll take him there.No, he won't anticipate it.

When the truth hit her, her heart fell. James wasn't on their side. He had been enticing Xander into a trap while working for Alexander. All of this was a part of a bigger scheme to break Xander totally, not just halt him.

An Intriguing Conflict

Isabella's pulse was racing as she hurried to tell Xander. However, she noticed that he was already tight as she walked up to him, as though he was aware that something was wrong.

"We must speak," she muttered quickly.

As he gazed at her, Xander searched her eyes. "What is it?"

Her voice was shaking as she said, "I heard James." He is collaborating with your dad. It's a trap.

Xander's expression clouded, and he stood motionless for a while, taking in the significance of what she had spoken. Without saying another word, he reached for his phone and called James to confront him.

"Where are you?" When James responded, Xander insisted.

"Why? What is happening? Although James' response was informal, Xander could see that he was tense.

"I am aware of your actions," Xander stated icily. "Come see me now."

After some hesitation, James consented. The restaurant where they had discussed the mission was where they met.

Xander wasted no time in polite conversation. "You and my father have been working together. I am fully informed.

James' composed exterior gave up just a little. "That's not what you believe."

Then explain it to me, Xander insisted.

With a sigh, James looked around the room and then leaned closer. "Your father is superior to me in some way. I had no other option. But pay attention, Xander—you're not understanding. This goes beyond business and control. The stakes are higher here. Your father is engaged in a more significant and potentially hazardous endeavour.

Xander squinted his eyes. "What do you mean?"

James took a deep breath. "I am unable to say. Not in this place. You're in over your head, though, believe me when I say that. The departure of your mother is just the beginning.

A FRESH DANGER

A sudden disturbance broke out at the restaurant's entryway before Xander could ask any questions. Armed guys who were obviously employed by Alexander Blackwood barged in, staring at Xander and James.

"Get moving!" Bullets fired as James yelled and pushed Xander from his seat.

In the midst of the mayhem, Xander realised how far his father was prepared to go as he and James dove for safety. This was now more than a game; it was war.

Xander's thoughts were racing as they fled through the back. His dad had gone too far. Now, it was more than simply his mother or the business. Alexander had introduced violence into Xander's life, and everything he held dear—Isabella, their future—could be destroyed if Xander didn't exercise caution.

However, it was evident that Xander would not compromise. Xander was prepared to fight back with all of his strength because his father had created a formidable foe.