Trading My Ex for His Uncle

The knocking persisted, darkening Gabriel's expression with each sound. It was clear the person outside knew he was inside but refused to leave.

He exhaled deeply and quietly moved Mason to the bedroom before returning to the door. In a low voice, he asked, "Who is it?"

"Hello, I'm here to check the gas lines. Could you open the door, please?" the other party replied.

Gabriel hesitated before saying, "I'm busy today. Come back tomorrow."noveldrama

"Sir, our inspections are time-sensitive. Last time, you weren't home. It'll only take five minutes," the person explained.

When Gabriel remained silent, the voice pressed on. "Sir? Are you still there?"

"I said come back tomorrow!" Gabriel snapped. "I don't have time today."

Deciding to ignore the persistent visitor, he retreated to the living room and made a call. "Some guy claiming to check the gas is at my door. Get up here now and deal with him!"

The line remained silent for a moment, and Gabriel's instincts flared.

Something was wrong. His tone turned icy. "Who are you?"

The call abruptly disconnected.

Unease settled over him as he tried contacting his men again, but none of them answered.

Growing frustrated, he called his secretary. "Find out what's going on! No one is answering my calls!"

"Yes, Mr. Hackett! Right away!" he replied.

Hanging up, Gabriel paced the room, anxiety building with each step. A chilling thought suddenly struck him, and he bolted toward the bedroom.

He flung the door open, and his face went pale.

The room was empty. The ropes lay discarded on the floor, mocking him.

The window was wide open.

Gabriel stormed toward it, but Mason was gone. His expression twisted with fury. He had underestimated the boy.

Snatching his phone, he barked at his secretary, "Send more men! I want Buddy back immediately!"

Without Mason, Nyla wouldn't agree to anything. Everything he'd planned would crumble.

As he opened the door to leave, a tall man stood in his path. Dressed in a mask and hat, the man exuded a menacing presence.

Gabriel froze, panic creeping into his chest. He tried to slam the door, but the man stopped it effortlessly with one hand.

The man's eyes were icy as he asked, "Where's Buddy?"

Gabriel staggered back, startled. "Who are you?"

"You don't need to know who I am," the man replied. "Tell me where Buddy is, or

you'll never leave this place alive."

Gabriel snorted. "And why should I tell you?"

Before he could react further, the man seized him by the throat. "Mr. Hackett, know all your plans. If your tell me where Buddy is now, I'll let you leave. You have one chance. Miss it, and you won't walk out of here." .

BUMS

Fear washed over Gabriel as he locked eyes with the man. He paled. "Let me go! You'll regret this!" Each word escaped through gritted teeth.