Lily had previously tried to break the windows, causing a commotion, but she barely left a scratch. She couldn't even crack the glass, and the people outside didn't bother checking on her. This indicated their confidence in her inability to escape through the windows. After a prolonged struggle, she only managed to exhaust herself and work up a sweat, to no avail.
Fortunately, a clock in the room allowed her to track time. Initially, Lily wasn't in a hurry, hoping someone would come. However, three days passed with no sign of activity. Each day was the same, except for her and her little ones' increasing restlessness. Lily paced constantly, unable to leave. Her body felt heavy, her movements sluggish. If she were to try anything, she had little chance of escape.
"I want to see your boss!" Lily opened the door and addressed the two guards. As she expected, they remained unresponsive, not even glancing at her. They clearly had received orders; they ignored everything she said unless instructed otherwise.
"Let me repeat myself. I want to see your boss!" She placed a hand on her abdomen, her brows furrowed. "I might... go into premature labor!"
After speaking, she braced herself against the doorframe and slowly crouched, unable to squat fully due to her swollen belly. Finally, the guards reacted. They turned, observing her pale complexion and the beads of sweat on her forehead. Her pain seemed genuine, and the guards would be in trouble if anything happened to her.
The guards exchanged a quick glance. One remained while the other hurried away.
Lily was unsure how they would communicate with their superiors. She'd assumed a walkie-talkie or phone call, but she hadn't expected them to leave to deliver the message. This suggested the people behind this were nearby. She slowly turned and walked to the sofa, plopping down and leaning to one side, appearing to be in considerable pain.
'It's an unavoidable strategy. It might be the only way to attract attention. I wouldn't even have a chance to negotiate, let alone escape, if I don't see anyone.'
After about ten minutes, she heard hurried, somewhat chaotic footstepsโat least three or four people. Lily covered her belly and lightly grasped the sofa, glancing toward the door from the corner of her eye.
Shortly after, the guard returned, accompanied by several others.
Lily's spirits lifted, though her face showed even more pain. She furrowed her brows, fixing her gaze on the approaching individuals, trying to discern who they were.
'Who are they? Are they the masterminds behind this? Will they turn out to be as I had imagined?'