Lucinda held her breath, watching him in dismay.
Nathan knew the kidnapping was all an act.
Why then did he proceed?
How could he inflict such pain on himself? Was he losing his mind?
In contrast to Lucindaâs shock and sorrow, Caspian grinned with pleasure.
âYes, thatâs right.
Continue.
â
Blood stained Nathanâs arm, but his face remained impassive, showing no sign of pain.
While Caspian was momentarily distracted, Nathan swiftly threw the sharp blade toward him.
âAh!â Caspianâs scream echoed as blood began to flow from his hand, which had just been holding Lucindaâs rope.
In that instant, Lucinda kicked him away with her foot and rolled over the thick layer of dead leaves.
When she rose, the hemp rope was no longer binding her hands.
Simultaneously, several figures burst from behind the trees.
Lucinda moved with agility and grace.
She fought off her assailants using her bare hands.
Swinging the hemp rope, she struck them forcefully.
For a moment, none could approach her.
The suited men lacked the strength to retaliate and lay on the ground, immobilized.
Having dispatched her adversaries, Lucinda let out a relieved sigh.
She felt a sense of relief throughout her body, finally able to unleash the frustration that had built up over several days.
Meanwhile, Everett and his team swiftly overpowered Caspianâs associates.
Within minutes, they had all been apprehended.
Nathan commanded loudly, âSearch the mountain and find the rest.
â
Numerous figures quickly scattered and vanished into the woods.
Lucinda, anxious, hurried over to Nathan to check his wound.
Tears filled her eyes as she said, âWhy did you listen to him? Why did you hurt yourself?â
Nathan smiled reassuringly.
âItâs okay.
Itâs really not a big deal.
Iâll explain everything to you later, okay?â
Looking at Lucindaâs disheveled appearance, Nathan felt a pang of remorse.
He hadnât seen her for days and had spent sleepless nights worrying.
Knowing Lucinda was suffering in the basement, he felt compelled to act.
Getting slightly hurt seemed a small price to pay to alleviate the guilt of the past few days, bringing him a sense of relief.
Understanding his intentions, Lucinda grabbed his face, slightly upset.
âIf you think enduring pain is necessary, Iâll make sure to teach you a lesson once weâre home.
â
âIâm already hurt.
Please, forgive me,â Nathan pleaded in a gentle tone.
He held Lucinda close, indifferent to the mud staining her clothes.