Chapter 31

• As I slowly opened my eyes, Mrs. Vilis was sitting next to me. "You're awake, Chloe. Do you need a glass of water?" I nodded, and she left the room. Immediately, my phone pinged from the side table. Trembling, I picked it up, my heart pounding with apprehension.
• "You've survived. I'll give you 48 hours to resign from your work and move in with me. Unless Emily and Anderson are harmed, their lives are in your hands. And don't tell anyone about this," the ominous message declared, its threatening tone sending shivers down my spine. My eyes widened in fear as the weight of the ultimatum sank in, realizing the perilous situation that now enveloped my life.
• Mrs. Vilis returned with a glass of water, noticing the distress etched on my face. "Is everything okay, Chloe?" she inquired, concern furrowing her brow.