Chapter 171

Chapter 173 Be Prepared for the Worst

Caroline and Neil anxiously waited for three hours in the corridor until Scott emerged from the

operation theater. He looked at Caroline, who was visibly frightened and sitting on a bench

“Caroline..”

Caroline raised her head, a bit dazed, and glanced toward the operation theater before asking, ‘

Where’s Ms. Smith?

Scott’s gaze dropped. “Ms. Smith was in shock when she arrived at the hospital. The surgery was

successful, but she’s still in critical condition Prepare for the worst.”

Caroline’s lips quivered, and she felt a cold shiver. “What do you mean?”

“She might end up in a coma, Scott said hoarsely.

Caroline suddenly felt lightheaded, and she started leaning to the side involuntarily.

Neil caught her. “Carol?”

Carol snapped out of it, tears streaming down her face. Her eyes were full of guilt. “It’s all my

fault”

Neil felt a pang in his heart. “It’s not your fault, Carol.”

Carol shook her head, sobbing with her hands covering her face. “I was so focused on revenge that

I didn’t prioritize the children and Ms. Smithr

“Carol, blaming yourself won’t help now. The children haven’t been found yet, so don’t give up.”

Neil said, looking concerned

“It’s been three hours!” Caroline cried, her tears flowing. “The kidnappers haven’t made any

demands, and the police have no leads. Ms. Smith is still in danger. What should I do?”

Suddenly, Caroline received a message. She pulled her phone out of her pocket shakily.

The text was from an unknown number. [You have 30 minutes to publicly admit

Daniella Xander. If not, your children won’t survive.]

you

framed

After reading the message, Caroline’s eyes turned bloodshot. She tightly gripped her phone,

standing upright as she said, “It’s Daniella! She’s the one who took the children! She’s using them

+15 BONUS

Neil rose and stopped her, his voice calming, “Carol, take a breath. Remember, Daniella only has

my grandfather. There’s no need to panic. I’ll make a call-

“Will that even help?” Caroline cut in, doubtful. If he cared about you, he wouldn’t hurt me. He’s

heartless.”

Neil seemed weary, admitting. “I feel helpless, Carol.”

He contemplated shifting his assets, influence, and connections but now wasn’t the right moment.

“It’s not your fault. It’s my own limitations.” Caroline wiped her tears, turning away.

Her gaze fell on Scott, his face grave. “Scott, please watch over Ms. Smith. I’m going

Scott nodded. “Of course.

Caroline headed for the exit, but Neil stopped her urgently. “Wait, Carol. There might be someone

who can assist.”

Pausing, Caroline inquired, “Who?”

“Evan. However, you might need to reveal the children’s identity first.”

“I’m willing.” Caroline affirmed promptly.

Shielding her children was her top priority.

Caroline dialed a number after getting into the car with Neil. She could still remember Evan’s

number by heart after five years.

Evan answered, and Caroline’s voice reached him. It’s me. Evan.”