Chapter 599
Bela dismissed Monkey's flattery, cautioning, "Be careful. Don't draw attention to yourself, and don't let anyone target you. The story behind these kidnappings is certainly intriguing." If they uncovered a lead and the kidnappers discovered their progress, things could become dangerous.
"Don't worry, boss. I'm quick on my feet. Even if they notice me, they won't catch up!" Monkey responded confidently, though his words held an undeniable hint of arrogance. After all, how could someone without skills survive as a mercenary? He was, after all, among the best in their group.
Felicia pondered this, then relaxed. Scarlet, finally grasping the situation, asked, "Boss, if your theory is correct, what's their reason for kidnapping these women?"
Felicia considered this seriously, then shook her head. "I don't know." But regardless of the hypothesis, the answer was undoubtedly ominous. The thought was terrifying.
Silence fell between them, punctuated only by exchanged glances.
After a long pause, Scarlet smiled. "Hey, we're being too pessimistic. That's not good. Maybe the person behind this isn't as bold as we think. Perhaps they're scared of being discovered and are hiding in the shadows, too afraid to act."
If that were true, the chances of rescuing the young women would be significantly higher. Of course, this was merely an optimistic guess.
Felicia nodded, unwilling to dampen the mood. "Let's hope that's the case," she replied.
They followed the stone path into a quiet alley. Streetlights cast a soft glow, and the surroundings were tranquil, save for the occasional rustling of leaves.
Rounding a corner, Felicia abruptly stopped. Scarlet was about to inquire what was wrong when she spotted three figures approaching from the far side of the garden—one man and two women.
The woman in the middle was curvaceous, her figure suggesting recent motherhood. She wore a gentle smile, occasionally turning her head to follow the conversation.
The man beside her was handsome, with an elegant demeanor and easygoing charm. He constantly attended to the woman's needs, reminding her to watch her step and inquiring about her comfort.
At first glance, they appeared to be a picture-perfect couple. Yet, oddly, there was an awkward third wheel. Johanna insisted on following, claiming concern that Imogen might stumble and requiring her support. The couple's romantic stroll became a three-person affair.
Felicia remained silent.
Soon, the three passed. The night, combined with the garden's dense foliage, obstructed much of their view. Imogen couldn't see well, and Johanna drew attention to herself with frequent, spoiled pronouncements. Archie balanced his attention between the two women, oblivious to Felicia standing at the corner.
Felicia had arrived at the Russell residence only yesterday. After spending a day and night confined by Stephan, she'd overheard maids mention during dinner that Imogen finally got her wish—her husband's company. That husband was Johanna's brother, Archie.
But wasn't Archie supposed to be dead? This had driven Imogen to seek revenge against the Fuller family, including Felicia, whom she considered an enemy. But now, the supposedly deceased had returned?
Felicia furrowed her brows, sensing something amiss. She recalled Stephan's explanation from last night: he was acting to draw out the mastermind. Was Archie's reappearance connected to this individual?