Louis chuckled. “You don’t have to worry about this, Mr. Brigthall. Ophelia McKinnon is an important asset to us, so if any harm befell her, the loss would be ours to bear! So, we provided her with quite a comfortable lifestyle. In fact, it’s even better than the life you gave her the last time, Mr. Brighthall.

“We’ve planned to reveal her in the most dramatic fashion, but Mr. Brighthall’s sharp wits removed our surprise by tripping us up, didn’t you?”

Louis’ last line was quite the insinuation. Brendan snickered. “How’s this exchange supposed to work?”

“There will be a cargo ship arriving at the eastern port a week from now. Mrs. McKinnon will be there,” said Louis. “Before the ship docks, you’ll be able to observe her from a distance of ten-odd meters. Should you release Connor then, he’ll leave on his own accord.”

“Fine.”

The call ended. Louis turned to the man behind him. “Sir, it is done.”

The man stayed silent, but the air seemed to be heating up. It grew hotter and heavier