CHAPTER 29

Emma's POV

I took a deep breath and nodded, trying to keep my voice steady. "Okay, I'll do what you want. Just please, let the children go."

The gaunt man smiled, seeming to savor the moment. "Very well, Emma. You've made the right decision."

He walked over to the Triplets, Carly and Lucas, who were still tied up and gagged. He removed their gags and began to untie them, but only partially. They were still trapped, locked in a small cage-like structure in the corner of the warehouse.

Gabe's eyes narrowed, his face twisted in anger. "This wasn't the agreement," he growled. "You said you'd let them go, not lock them up like animals."

The kidnapper chuckled. "Oh, but this is exactly what we agreed on, Gabe. You see, Emma agreed to cooperate, and this is the result. The children are safe, for now."

I felt a surge of fear at his words. What did he mean by "for now"?

Gabe struggled against his restraints, his face red with rage. "You lied to us," he spat. "You'll pay for this."

The kidnappe