In the Lap of Luxury

Chapter 503 Ransom of 50 Million Dollars

Grace said apologetically, "Sorry, Mr. Barnes. Something urgent came up, and I need to handle it. Let's stop the discussion here today. We'll keep in touch in case something crops up."

With that, she left in a hurry while talking on the phone.

Albert stared at her retreating figure in doubt. He ran after her and said, "Ms. Lewis, you seem really worried right now. Did something happen? You can tell me. I might even be able to help you."

"Thanks for your kindness, Mr. Barnes. I don't need any help right now."

The elevator doors opened, and Grace rushed in. Then, she gave the bank a call. 50 million dollars was doable for her, but it might be difficult to get it in cash.

Thanks to Grace's special status, the bank readily agreed. However, they needed an hour to prepare the cash.

…

At the same time, Caleb also received a text.

He was in the middle of a shoot for a magazine cover. As soon as he finished reading the text, he stopped the shoot.

He dialed Lydia's number, but the call wouldn't connect. When his manager saw him in this state, he quickly asked, "Caleb, what's the matter? Did something happen?"

Caleb grabbed his jacket. He didn't even have time to change out of the clothes he was wearing for the photoshoot.

All he said was, "There's something I need to take care of." Then, he left the set in a hurry.

…

On the other hand, Grace was anxiously waiting for the bank to deliver the cash. However, Xander found her first. Grace asked in surprise, "Xander, what are you doing here?"

"Something must have happened for you to request such a huge sum of money. I had to ask Mr. Ziegler to find out what happened. Were you able to find out who the kidnappers are?"

Grace shook her head. "I don't know! Lydia leads a very normal life. She wouldn't make enemies so easily."

"Then, who are the perpetrators? Why would they suddenly kidnap her?"

Grace frowned. "I don't know yet. But no matter what, we have to rescue Lydia first."

"Okay. When we get the cash, I'll go alone. You shouldn't go."

"No. Lydia has been my best friend for years. Moreover, she's practically family to me now. I have to see her safe and sound with my own eyes."

Xander grabbed her hand. He said in a sincere tone, "Listen to me. Just stay home and wait for my call. I'll make sure she comes back safely." Published by Nôv'elD/rama.Org.

"But—"

Grace wanted to argue, but Xander interrupted her. "Listen to me."

"Gracie, the kidnappers are calling." Emily ran over and handed the phone to Grace.

At the side, Xander also took out his own phone. "Try to keep the call going for as long as you can. I'll trace their location."

Grace understood. She answered the phone with a "Hello?"

"Is the money ready?" A man's voice sounded over the phone.

Grace looked up at Xander. The latter's fingers were already flying over the screen of his phone. She could see a string of numbers flashing on the screen.

"How can I be sure that she's with you? You need to let me hear her voice first," Grace said.

The kidnapper didn't beat around the bush. He grabbed Lydia by the hair and shoved the phone in her face. "Speak," he said coldly.

Lydia turned her face away and refused to say a word.

The man slapped her harshly across the face. "Bitch, I asked you to speak."

Grace's heart twinged. "Lydia, is that you? Are you okay?" she said anxiously.

Hearing Grace's voice, Lydia's eyes instantly reddened. Still, she bit her lip harshly and didn't make a sound.

The man struck her again. "I said speak!"

As he spoke, he prepared to hit her one more time, but Grace stopped him. "Stop, don't touch her! I'll give you as much money you want!"