To maintain the facade, it was imperative that the mysterious Mr.


    Murray be made aware of Nathan’s knowledge about Lucinda’s purported abduction and his deep concern.


    For three consecutive days, the vi remained untouched, ensconced within Nathan’s tightening perimeter like a spider ensnaring its prey.


    As dawn broke, casting its soft glow upon the foliage, Everett reclined in a chair within the vi’s modest confines.


    A curl of smoke twirledzily from his cigar as he savored a moment of tranquility.


    His partnership with Nathan offered a sense of security, yet Lucinda’s insistence on residing in the basement perturbed him greatly.


    “Mr.


    Gomez!”


    The sudden interruption jolted him from his reverie, causing him to startle and inadvertently scatter ash from his cigar.


    Turning, he fixed his subordinate with a steely re.


    “Can’t you see I’m resting?”


    The man lowered his gaze.


    “Mr.


    Gomez, three representatives sent by Mr.


    Murray are here.


    ”


    Everett’s initial impulse to rise faltered, reced by a furrowed brow.


    “Why doesn’t he deign to appear in person?”


    “Still the same people as thest time.


    Unlikely, he’ll present himself.


    ”N?vel/Dr(a)ma.Org - Content owner.


    Everett sneered.


    He muttered to himself, “Mr.


    Murray revels in his enigmatic air.


    Still reluctant to show his face? Is it because he’s too unattractive?”


    Within the vi’s living room stood three men, d in somber suits, their countenances inscrutable.


    “Mr.


    Gomez, my boss has dispatched us for negotiations,” Keh said.


    Seating himself on the sofa, Everett sneered.


    “Is such a_ rendezvous necessary? He demanded proof of her captivity and received it.


    Yet he remains elusive.


    It seems he’s not invested in our coboration.


    ”


    Pouring waternguidly, Everett’s discontent simmered beneath the surface.


    “Let it be known, the woman in question is none other than Nathan’s wife!”


    Keh, the lead envoy, settled across from him, his demeanorposed.


    “There is no need for grievances, Mr.


    Gomez.


    Mr.


    Murray’s gesture is one of goodwill.


    ”


    Leaning forward, Keh’s tone dripped with insinuation.


    “Your vi has been under the vignt watch of the National Security Bureau for three days now.


    Quite the inconvenience, I’d imagine.


    ”


    His smile bordered on smugness.


    Behind his sunsses, Keh’s gaze bored into Everett’s, exuding confidence.


    In truth, the surveince perimeter was under Nathan’s direct supervision, leaving no room forxity.


    Everett remained unperturbed.


    “You seem well-acquainted with my predicament.


    ”


    Keh arched an eyebrow.


    “Word travels fast.


    Your troubles have bemon knowledge.


    I doubt anyone else will dare venture here.


    Nheless, Mr.


    Murray seeks to extend a helping hand.


    Would you not entertain our proposal?”