Arielle tried to convince them patiently. “Your mom’s waiting for you at the bottom. You’ll all see your moms as soon as you reach the exit.” The older ones began to calm down when they heard her words. Then, they helped a few children on their feet and ushered them towards the exit. However, a few children were too young and could barely walk. Consequently, the older ones had a difficult time managing every child with their hands full. She initially wanted to go to the CEO’s office but hesitated when she saw what happened.
I’m pretty sure there’s something that I want hiding in the secret compartment, but these kids… their lives matter too… The ground beneath her shook even more vigorously when she was in a dilemma. Arielle knew that the building would collapse at any moment. She took one look at CEO’s office that was wide open. She made up her mind and carried two babies and ran towards the exit. As soon as she walked out of the door, she heard a loud voice ringing through the stairway. Arielle’s eyes gleamed in surprise, “Vinson? What’re you doing here?”
He looked at her and replied, “I told you, I’m not letting you die here! Give me the child!” Arielle quickly handed him the child and was ready to head back to the room to get the remaining children. “Wait, aren’t you going to get what you left behind?” Vinson called out. Arielle stopped and turned back to him, “I think you’ll need my help. It’s going to be a little challenging for you to lead them all by yourself…”
“But, you said that that thing was very important to you, right? We don’t have much time now. It’d be too late for you to come back up once we’ve sent the children to safety. Go and get it and catch up with us.” “But…” “No buts! Just go!” he urged. He’s right. I wouldn’t make it if I followed them to the bottom and make my way up again. This is my last chance. If I don’t do it now, my questions might remain unanswered forever.
She frowned at the choice given to her as she struggled to make a decision. Finally, she made up her mind and strode to the office. It’s a great opportunity that I just can’t miss. I’ve been plotted against a few times as soon as I returned to the country in secret. I did all this to get to the bottom of the truth. I can’t hesitate anymore! She hastened her steps and arrived at the CEO’s office. Vinson stared at Arielle’s figure for a brief moment before leading the children down the stairs.
The older children walked at the front while Vinson led a group of young children of six with two in his hands. Suddenly, another explosion occurred on the floor Vinson and the children were at. “Ahh!” they screamed. The oldest children who had been the calmest were instantly overcome with fear when they heard the explosion. “Mom!” An older child wailed. He panicked and ran towards the exploded floor, leaving behind the younger children.
“Hey, kid! Come back!” Vinson yelled. The explosion had just happened moments ago, so the ground beneath them might break away anytime. Yet, the child quickly disappeared before Vinson could stop him. He wanted to chase after him desperately, but he was tied down by two children in his hands and many other panicky children around him. I could go after him, but what would these kids do if I did? They’re way too young to be able to take care of themselves.
