The Ex and Her Riches

“Who are you looking for?”

The man’s voice over the phone sounded raspy and unpleasant.

As Cedrick listened to the man’s voice, memories of Joe’s face from their younger days and the shared experiences of training together came flooding back.

During their training, Cedrick and Joe, along with their fellow trainees, learned a few voice modulation techniques.

“Joe, is that you?” Cedrick inquired, though deep down, he was already certain of the answer.

There was a moment of silence on the other end of the phone, followed by a light chuckle. “Looks like I’ve underestimated you, Mr. Jenson. I’m impressed that you were able to figure that out. That explains why you’re still at the helm of the Federal Bureau of Investigation after so many years.”

Cedrick, not interested in pleasantries, got straight to the point. “Where’s my wife? Release her immediately. If you have any demands, speak to me directly,” he demanded.

The man sneered, his voice hoarse and tinged with mockery. “I’ve always thought you had a heart of stone, but it seems you love your wife deeply. Tell me, are you willing to give up your life if I want you dead?”

Cedrick remained silent for a moment, contemplating his response carefully. When he spoke again, his tone was serious and unwavering. “If you release Gwendolyn and guarantee her safe return, you will witness news of my self-inflicted gunshot the next day.”

“Why should I trust you?”

“We’ve known each other for years, and you know I’m a man of my word. If you don’t trust me, I can write a will.” Cedrick spoke calmly as if discussing something trivial.

However, Cedrick’s serious words seemed to have the opposite effect, further enraging the man on the other end of the line.

The man’s voice grew even more venomous as he reminded Cedrick of a past tragedy. “Cedrick Jenson, have you forgotten about the girl who died for you? You were heartless back then, and now you’re claiming to be a perfect husband, willing to sacrifice your life. Do you think I would let you off so easily?”

Cedrick’s face turned pale as Joe’s words unearthed haunting memories from his troubled past.

at the Federal Bureau of Investigation, pretending to be a devoted husband without any guilt?” Joe’s voice dripped with bitterness as he

toward Cedrick

man’s accusations. “I don’t feel guilty. I

girl

menacing, reminiscent of a wild beast’s growl or a lurking predator’s hiss, thoroughly provoked. “After all these years, you’re still the same heartless man you used to be. Since you’re so capable, find

chilling chuckle emanated from the other end of the phone, Cedrick’s grip on the receiver tightened. “Joe

in a state worse than death for a long time,” he replied callously. “But it would be quite a treat if I could make you and your wife suffer

intense conversation between Cedrick and Joe continued,

advanced

all the information from

glance at Swain, who remained fully focused on the computer screen

being monitored, Joe continued his conversation with Cedrick. “Cedrick, we’ve been friends for years. I might consider letting your wife go if you admit to your past mistakes. Kneel before Eryn’s grave for three days and three nights, and I’ll ensure your wife’s safe return,” he

dealing with Joe,

in disguise

that many things could happen in three days, who could be certain of the dangers

so there was no reason for him to

chose to remain silent, seemingly

don’t call me by this time tomorrow, be prepared to receive a gift from me,” he

Beep! Beep! Beep!

in.

“We’re not at his mercy. I’m in control of the situation,” he declared firmly. “We still have twenty-four hours, so

fully immersing himself in the realm of hacking

hours to finally establish a connection with the tracking system

location on Swain’s screen indicated that Joe

Cedrick’s countenance as he fell