Carl took a drag from his cigarette, the smoke swirling around his face like a mask, hiding his expression.In the tense silence, Renee's heart skipped a beat. She clenched her fists, willing herself to stay calm.Carl stubbed out his cigarette. "Let her go," he said flatly.Renee looked away, watching raindrops slide down a nearby leaf. "Uncle Carl, thanks for your help, but I won't be needing it anymore," she said coldly.His hand froze mid-motion as he watched her retreating figure.A phone ring broke the silence. It was Ms. Johnson."Still alive?" she asked."Barely," Carl replied dryly.She chuckled. "You called it. Someone made their move, and now your dear niece must be worried sick, huh?”Carl pinched the bridge of his nose. "She just cut ties with me."Ms. Johnson burst out laughing. "Well, why don't you come over and let me nurse you back to health?""I'll pass.""Ha!" she scoffed. "You wish you could, but she's already bailed! That's what you get for being all ta
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