Imogen nodded. “I understand. I’ll be careful.” She added, “By the way, from now on, just call me Imogen. As your sister-in-law, and considering our similar age, I’d like to think of us as family, if you don’t mind.”
Her smile was warm, her eyes filled with anticipation and hope, tempered by a hint of caution. Felicia, unused to such sudden closeness, replied, “I’ll call you Imogen, then.”
Imogen nodded, determined to mend their past and bridge the gap between them.
After Imogen left, Felicia was about to return when her phone rang. It was a new investigation report from Monkey. She read it line by line, growing increasingly alarmed. Sixteen missing women, including Jennifer, had all visited hospitals for various reasons before their disappearances. Each had undergone routine check-ups, including blood tests.
Almost immediately, Monkey called. “Boss, I followed your lead and found something! The hospital’s backend system was hacked, and the stolen data includes files on all sixteen missing women! I also traced the hacker’s IP address. It’s nearby, at the foot of the mountain here in Seldvale. I’m planning to check it out.”
The background noise – engines and street vendors – suggested he was at a bus station. Felicia frowned with concern. “Are you planning to go alone? Don’t do that. It’s too dangerous. Stay there; I’ll send a few other mercenaries to join you!” If the location was legitimate, it was likely a kidnapper’s hideout; going alone was reckless.
“Relax, Boss. I’ll call you when I catch them,” Monkey replied, eager to finish the mission, collect his commission, and enjoy life. He scoffed at the danger; a fight would be welcome. “Just get the payment ready. I’ll have the job done in no time. Talk to you later!”
Before Felicia could ask for the address, Monkey hung up. His phone was unreachable. She’d recently praised him for his caution, but he’d reverted to his impulsive nature. If all went well, it would be fine. But if it was a trap…
Felicia quickly contacted the other mercenaries, asking if they’d been in touch with Monkey. Each had been investigating separately; none knew his whereabouts.
Big Guy reassured her, “Boss, don’t worry. Monkey’s skilled. Even if he’s in danger, he can handle it.”
Felicia had to suppress her anxiety and wait. But even after a night passed, there was still no word from Monkey. His phone remained unreachable. Something had definitely gone wrong.