Chapter 326

Evelyn's fingers scraped against the deck, leaving streaks of blood.

She opened her mouth, but no sound came out.

Annabelle crouched before her, eyes tracing the ropes binding her wrists and ankles. "So you're tied up."

"Annabelle—"

Alexander's voice grew closer.

Evelyn strained every muscle to inch toward the cabin door.

A hand clamped down on her shoulder.

She looked up into Annabelle's eyes—cold and venomous.

Bang!

The cabin door slammed shut.

The click of the lock echoed sharply.

"Did you find her?"

"Don't open it!" Annabelle's voice trembled with false tears. "It's full of fire inside. Dr. Carter isn't there—"

The deck vibrated.

Alexander had boarded the ship.

"Are you sure?"

"I saw it myself. The cabin's empty." Annabelle spoke rapidly. "The flames are spreading. We need to hurry—"

Vivian's footsteps approached. "Any sign of her?"

"Nothing." Annabelle's tone was final. "Let's check the other side."

A heavy silence followed.

"Alexander?" Annabelle gasped suddenly. "That boat! I heard something!"

Footsteps scattered into the distance.

Evelyn stared at the cabin ceiling.

Flames licked at the beams above.

The realization struck her.

Simon was never the only one behind this kidnapping.

Smoke filled her lungs.

Her consciousness wavered.

A final thought flickered—

Even quails can peck.