The sheriffs arrived soon after and interviewed me to assess the situation. Their expressions grew serious as they heard the abductor’s demands, which I had recorded on my phone.
They attempted to dial the abductor’s number, but it had been disconnected. Their only option was to wait for him to call back.
Meanwhile, I was on the phone with my personal finance advisor.
“How much cash can I mobilize right now? Approximately 2,300,000 dollars? Alright, get that amount ready.”
Afterward, I called Kael Ulric, Leo’s uncle, who was shocked upon learning about the abduction.
“Is this real? Is Leo there with you?” he asked.
“Leo’s not here. He’s out with Cheryl to celebrate Valentine’s. The sheriffs are here with me,” I replied.
After a brief pause, Kael asked, “Then why are you calling me?”
“The abductors want 4,125,000 dollars in cash as ransom, but I don’t have enough. How much can you gather? I’ll pay you back in a week,” I assured him.
“How much do you need?”
“About 1,800,000 dollars,” I replied.
“I’ll do my best. He’s my older brother, after all.”
–
One hour later, the abductor called back as promised.
I answered immediately and was greeted by a stern voice. “Time’s up. Have you delivered the money?”
“I’m still gathering it. Please give me more time,” I pleaded. I don’t have that much cash on me, and Leo’s not here.”
“I told you I’d gouge their hearts out if you couldn’t deliver the money, didn’t I?”
“Don’t hurt them, please! It’s money you want, isn’t it? Killing them won’t be good for you—you won’t get the money, right? Please, just give me another half hour, and I promise I’ll have the money by then.”
At that moment, I could hear Victor and Vera’s desperate screams from the other side of the phone.
The abductor’s voice turned eerie as he said, “I’m taking five teeth per person every half hour, so go ahead and stall all you want!”
