"She was fully aware that Victoria's time was running out, yet she continued with her manipulative games. Remember how she faked illnesses and even staged her own kidnapping just to get Alexander's and my attention?"

"After years of luxury, she's grown accustomed to this lifestyle. Now that Alexander is involved, she'd never agree to a divorce easily. This is nothing but a tactical retreat," Dominic remarked, shaking his head.

Benjamin studied Dominic closely, brows furrowed, as if on the verge of speaking. Just then, the hospital room door swung open abruptly.

The nurse, spotting Dominic still in the hallway, exhaled in relief. "Mr. Blackwood, thank goodness you're still here. Ms. Langley had a nightmare, and we can't wake her. Could you please check on her?"

Dominic gave a quick nod and strode back into the room. Benjamin watched him go, his figure disappearing down the sterile corridor.

Amy waited anxiously for two days before Dominic finally contacted her. "I've confirmed that Samantha wasn't taken by Harrison," he said, his tone unreadable. "I need a few more days to locate her, so just hold tight."

Amy let out a shaky breath but immediately tensed again. "What happened to Samantha? Why is she hiding?"

After a brief pause, Dominic replied, "Seems she angered the wrong person and is lying low to avoid trouble. Don't worry—once I find her, I'll handle it."

Knowing Samantha's knack for provoking people, Amy didn't question his explanation. She thanked him and ended the call.

However, moments later, her phone buzzed with a new message.

"Amy, your friend has been missing for days. Aren't you concerned?"

Amy instantly recognized Victoria's signature brand of chaos. She ignored it, about to delete the message, when a photo came through—Samantha, bound to a chair, duct tape covering her mouth.

Her pulse spiked. She dialed the number, but the call disconnected instantly. Another text followed.

"If you want to find your friend, meet me at this café. Don’t worry—I won’t hurt you."

Amy stared at the address. The café was a high-end spot in the city center, far too public for a typical hostage exchange. If Dominic had confirmed Alexander wasn’t involved, how did Victoria know Samantha’s whereabouts? Was Samantha really with her?

Mind racing, Amy decided to go.

The café was bustling when she arrived, patrons chatting over lattes and pastries.

A polished barista approached. "Ma'am, do you have a reservation?"

Amy gave the table number, and the barista led her to a secluded corner. As she sat, her gaze landed on a familiar figure.

The woman looked up, lips curving into a practiced smile.

"Ms. Sinclair, you came."

Amy studied Victoria’s flawlessly composed features, her voice steady but guarded. "Victoria, what do you want? Why bring me here?"

Victoria signaled for a coffee before turning back to her, eyes glinting with amusement.