Chapter 174: The quick rescue
The tension in the room grew, every second stretching into an eternity as the situation teetered on the brink of disaster. Theodore’s mind raced, searching for a way to save Bella without escalating the danger. Every muscle in his body was coiled, ready to spring into action the moment an opportunity presented itself.
Meanwhile, Zack’s eyes flickered to Theodore inching closer to Ivy and Bella. A surge of hope coursed through him. All he needed to do was keep Ivy occupied in conversation and buy Theodore enough time.
"Fifty million!" Zack exclaimed, feigning shock to keep Ivy focused on him. "It’s impossible to arrange that kind of money in just half an hour. I need more time."
"But I don’t have time!" Ivy snapped. "The cops are after me. They’ll find me soon, and I need to get out of here now."
"Ivy, you’re making a terrible mistake," Zack snarled, trying to sound both stern and concerned. "You won’t be able to escape. The police will catch you. Stop this madness and surrender. I’ll do everything I can to get you the lightest sentence possible."
"Don’t waste my time," Ivy snapped fiercely. "Transfer the money right now."
But in her frantic demand, she failed to notice Theodore closing the distance behind her. Zack’s eyes briefly met Theodore’s, and he saw the determined glint in them. Theodore looked over at Tristan, who was also positioning himself closer. With a subtle nod, Theodore signaled to Tristan.
Tristan returned the nod and suddenly leaped forward, his unexpected movement startling Ivy. "You can’t escape, Ivy. The cops are on their way."
Ivy barely had time to react before Theodore lunged at her from behind. With a swift, decisive move, he snatched the knife from her grip and shoved her to the ground, pulling Bella securely into his arms. Tristan was on Ivy in an instant, forcing her down and making her kneel, securing her wrists with unyielding strength.
The hall erupted into chaotic murmurs as the tense atmosphere broke, everyone suddenly finding their voices. The fear that had paralyzed them moments ago was replaced by anger and disgust, directed squarely at Ivy. People who had been cowering now openly cursed her.