Chapter 714

So there were divisions within their ranks.

Evelyn lowered her gaze, a plan forming in her mind. "Write a ransom note and send it to Anderson Construction. Tell them I've been kidnapped. As the only daughter of the Anderson family, they'll pay."

The gang leader's eyes lit up. "Can the Andersons produce three million right away?"

"Of course," Evelyn stated firmly.

The surrounding thugs began breathing heavily. The leader rubbed his hands together but suddenly hesitated. "What if they call the police?"

"You can collect the money first, then release me. My parents wouldn't risk my life."

A lackey suddenly piped up, "Boss, she's not just an Anderson heiress—she's Alexander Hamilton's woman!"

The leader slapped his thigh. "Then we'll demand another payment from the Hamiltons! Three million from the Andersons, and at least ten million from Hamilton Group!"

"But Alexander is currently under Lydia Laurent's control..." another thug hesitated.

The leader spat. "These rich bastards are all the same! Living in luxury while we risk our necks!"

Evelyn exhaled silently in relief. At least she'd confirmed Alexander was with Lydia and temporarily safe.

"The Andersons can add another two million," she suggested calmly.

The leader eyed her greedily. "We'll need proof of life."

"Cut off a finger?" someone proposed.

"Idiot!" the leader roared. "Alexander lived in the slums for her. Harm one finger, and how many lives do you think you have to spare?"

Evelyn remained composed. "Take the button from my sleeve. My family will recognize it."

The leader changed tactics. "Make it six million!" He ripped off the button and handed it to a lackey. "Then demand ten million from Hamilton Group—five million minimum. Tell that secretary if they don't pay, they can collect the boss's wife in a body bag!"

As the thugs left, Evelyn finally relaxed.

The Andersons could scrape together the money, but Hamilton Group... Emily Zade had limited authority. Would she be able to reach Alexander?

A full day and night had passed. Had he found a way to escape?

Meanwhile, Alexander's water glass slipped from his grasp and shattered.

"Third one today," Lydia sang, pouring a fourth glass. "If you keep misbehaving, Evelyn might—"

"I'll drink it." He drained the glass in one go.

Lydia's smile turned icy. "How predictable. Only her name gets through to you."

"Don't drag innocents into this."

"How touching." She tilted her head. "Why can't it be me?"

"Another glass," Alexander suddenly said.

Lydia raised an eyebrow. "Suddenly obedient?"

As she turned, he swiftly pocketed a shard of broken glass.

"Drink up." She handed him the fifth glass.

He took a sip. "Get out."

"Fine." Lydia reached the doorway, then glanced back with a dazzling smile. "But soon, you'll be begging me to return."