Upon hearing Carter’s words, Madeline smiled softly. “Thank you for your compliments, Mr. Carter, but I don’t need them. I don’t need you to think I'm special, and I certainly don’t need your admiration. On the contrary, you repulse me.”

Carter’s lips seemingly curled. “Is that so? Is that why you won’t tell me where Shirley is?”

“That’s right, I won’t.” Madeline maintained her cool as she looked into Carter’s inscrutable eyes. “However, if you intend to abduct me now to exchange for her, go a