Elsewhere, in a hidden room at a secret hideout, Elijah Simons sat comfortably until the door slammed open, and Jake rushed in, his face pale with worry.
"Jake! Why are you barging into my room like that?" Elijah growled, his anger flaring instantly.
"Boss, I’m sorry, but the news I just received is urgent!"
Elijah’s glare deepened. "What news could possibly make you forget your manners?"
"Boss... Maria is awake. She’s doing well."
Elijah shot to his feet, his heart pounding. The news rattled him more than he expected.
"What? Maria is awake?" His mind spun with panic as he clenched his fists tightly. "Damn it! This changes everything..."
His fury echoed through the room as Jake stood quietly, knowing better than to speak further.
Elijah’s nightmare had just begun...