I lifted my head to look at Lyle, only to see him gazing at me indifferently as if my death had nothing to do with him. I thought I should say something to save my own life. However, right when I was about to open my mouth, he moved his fingers and gestured me an okay sign.
I was surprised at first but quickly hid my true emotion. I remember that action very well. In fact, it was something I would never forget. That was his favorite little gesture, which he often used with Crystal, to demonstrate their affection for each other.
Back then, I spent a lot of time and effort on Lyle. Hence, I could easily tell from his actions, whatever both of them had up their sleeves. If Crystal wanted to bully me, he would make that gesture to assure her that he would take care of it.
What does it mean when he showed me that sign? Is he dropping a hint that he’s going to save me?
I debated about it, but I was still clueless if I should believe him. There was hardly any trust displayed between us.
While I was still stuck in the quandary, Lyle said, “Why don’t I offer everyone a piece of advice? I’ll let you participate in this project. In return, you should release her. This is a win-win situation for all of us. In addition, you don’t need to live in fear nor worry about offending the Lane family. Consider half of the profit a favor from Christopher. What do you think?”
The kidnappers said nothing as they were probably weighing the pros and cons of Lyle’s offer. At that moment, there was pin-drop silence in the room. Feeling the intense pressure all around me, I was having ants in my pants and could not sit still.
“It’s best not to be so greedy. If you accept the offer, a bright future awaits you. We both know what the consequences are if you choose to reject it. Ms. Tanner is a very special person. Do you really think that as a member of the special forces, Christopher doesn’t know your hiding place? Can you guarantee that you’ll still stay alive when the authorities, as well as the underground societies, come after you?”
Chuckling, he continued, “We do this for the money, but it’s a pity to lose your life before even getting a chance to spend the hard-earned money. I don’t think I want to do that.”
Lyle negotiated with those people strategically. He was very logical and convincing in his words. I could not help but take a glance at him. I haven’t seen him in a while. He seems to have matured a lot and is becoming more dependable. He’s totally changed from the reckless guy that I used to know. Had he always been this sensible, things would have been very different between us.
The kidnappers finally agreed to go with Lyle’s suggestion after a vigorous discussion. “Fine, Smith. I’ll do this on your account, but don’t you dare to play any tricks with me. Half of the profit is mine!”
Lyle tossed the agreement over. “This is what I’ve prepared. If you’re okay with it, sign it now.”
In the end, Lyle led me out of the underground basement. What a relief! I did not realize how terrified I was until I was staggering back and forth to get into the car. My legs felt like jelly, and I was almost paralyzed by fear at one point. Fortunately, Lyle gave me a hand when I was about to stumble and trip over.
Taking a deep breath, I pushed him away and tried to regain my footing. Using both my hands and feet, I crawled into the car, took a seat, and calmed myself down.
“It’s over. Have some water.” Lyle handed a bottle to me. When he saw that I refused to take it, he arched his brow and slid it into my hand.
“Did you assume that I’d leave you just like last time?”
Since my inner thoughts were exposed, I nodded and replied admittedly, “Precisely. Anyway, you’re right. We are just two strangers.”
Lyle let out a wry smile. He leaned against the car seat and heaved a sigh. “I always think about that incident. If I had chosen to save you first, would I still lose you? Every time I think about it, I’d undoubtedly curse myself for being a fool. I bet you think the same, right?”
I did not answer him. To me, it was all a coincidence to run into Lyle here. It was also an accident when he held my hand and ran.
“Why are you in Yorksland? I can’t recall if there’s any famous painter here that needs to be visited. Remington and the others are in Summerbank.”
