Chapter 19: 1929
Harold's regret was profound. Being beaten by Donald's men was bad, but recovery was possible. Far worse was the imminent handover to local authorities by Interpol, resulting in inevitable kidnapping charges for him and his father. This felony carried a ten-year minimum sentence.
The thought of a decade in prison shattered Harold. As Don Albertt's men lifted him, he sobbed, "Interpolโฆ are you really sending us? My fatherโฆ we were instigated! Donald is behind this!"
Christopher wept, "We've paid a heavy price. Please, give us a chance!"
Harold, turning to his father, cried, "Dadโฆ I don't want to go to jail!"
Tears streaming down his face, Christopher choked out, "I'll take the blame. I'll say it was all my idea. You knew nothing. Try to get the judge to be lenientโฆ"
Harold dissolved into tears. Their sobs filled the room.
Don Albertt intervened, coldly ordering, "Stop crying! One more tear, and you're going to prison!"
Harold, incredulous, asked, "Comrade Interpol, you're not sending us?"
Don Albertt replied, "Fortunately for you, Caroline's arrest must remain absolutely confidential. We can't inform other departments. Therefore, today's kidnapping of Elaine Ma and Caroline will not be reported to local agencies."
"Really?!" Harold's body convulsed with relief, though the movement aggravated his injuries, causing him to wail in pain. Despite the agony, his heart soaredโa prison sentence was averted.
Thompson First Villa:
Lady Wilson, watching the clock, addressed Wendy, "Why haven't your father and brother contacted us? It's been too long."
Wendy replied, "It's a lot to handle. They arranged for Elaine Ma's transfer, filmed it, and sent the video to the black brick factory."
Lady Wilson smirked, "Elaine Ma's been acting too high and mighty. She needs to learn some humility."
Wendy smiled, "Grandma, I've hated that woman for a long time, especially after this. I could break her legs again!" She added with relish, "Jail was interesting. Gena, that strong woman, even took Elaine Ma's feces out with a slap. Elaine Ma was miserable! Thinking about it makes me excited!"
Mrs. Wilson agreed enthusiastically, "Gena, that country woman, is incredibly strong! One could beat Elaine Ma; three could turn her around!"