Chapter 265 Sophie decided not to feign unconsciousness any longer, knowing that pretending could only lead to more trouble.
The gang's leader approached Sophie with a knife and ripped the duct tape from her mouth.
Sophie remained silent, not screaming or calling for help, which surprised the leader. Typically, their captives would scream for help the moment they regained consciousness, but this woman showed no fear, her face devoid of terror.
Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇt"James' woman is indeed extraordinary," the leader remarked, scrutinizing Sophie's face. “Such a beautiful face," he mused, lightly pinching her chin.
"There's no need to intimidate me. You wouldn't harmbefore receiving the ransom," Sophie stated confidently.
It was clear these men were professional kidnappers and hitmen, adhering to certain unspoken rules of their trade.
True to form, the leader released Sophie, saying, “Someone's paid us to take your life. As soon as James' payment is confirmed, we'll do away with you. One way or another, you're doomed. By then, we'll have had our fun without loss." Sophie couldn't help but laugh at his words.
any Seeing no fear on her face, the leader grew displeased. "What's so funny?" "You're being incredibly naive," Sophie retorted. “Do you know who James is? Do you know who I am? Can you truly ensure your escape by boat after receiving the money? You have no guarantees. If you lay a finger onand James gets his hands on you afterward, need I spell out your fate?" The men exchanged glances, evidently pondering her words.
Sophie continued, “I may have many flaws, but I have a strong will. If you touch me, I'll find a way to end my own life. James will want proof of my safety before he pays. If he finds out I'm dead, what do you think will happen to you?" "Alright, you've made your point!" the leader conceded, stepping back. "You'll meet your end by our hands eventually, so go ahead and be defiant for now. Once we get the money..." "You plan to kill me, hoping to catch James off guard and then flee by boat to international waters, right?" Sophie interrupted, seeing through their plan.
The men fell silent, their initial schexposed.
Sophie smiled. “You're after money. Taking it from James is no small feat, and I admire your courage. We could, however, make a deal that benefits us both." "What kind of deal?" one of them asked, puzzled.
Follow on Novᴇl-Onlinᴇ.cᴏm"A perfect deal that ensures you get the money, allows you to fulfill your contract by claiming my life, and even earns you an extra sum fromafterward." The men looked at each other, confused by her proposal.
Sophie smiled sneakily at them.
Meanwhile, James had mobilized the entire Devonport security force, tracking them to the docks.
Only one boat was moored at the dock, and upon seeing this, Coltm immediately reported to James, "Mr.
Burke, it seems the kidnappers plan to escape with the ransom."
"We can't let them get away!" James' gaze was fixed on the boat. "Sophie I the boat" is still on board. Give them the money and demand her release!" "But Mr. Burke, that's ten billion dollars!"
Colt looked troubled, knowing that Burke International needed those funds for various projects. Losing ten billion dollars to the kidnappers could severely impact the Burke family's business operations. "Enough! Do as I say!" "Mr. Burke..." "Nothing is more important than Sophie's life! Do you understand?"