When Love Becomes a Cage (Melanie) novel Chapter 185

Clyde's surgery was a resounding success. The blood clots in his brain were meticulously removed, but he remained unconscious.

"The brain damage and coma are par for the course," the doctor had said. "Whether he wakes up is now up to fate."

The Crawford family was all over the news, and Henson had moved swiftly, catching them off guard. Only Talbot had managed to slip away in the chaos.

By the time Lisa arrived, she looked exhausted, yet there was a noticeable softness in her eyes.

"I had already secured the evidence from Talbot's safe and handed it over to the police early this morning. I've cooperated with their investigation. He won't get away this time."

"It's like I've betrayed my own family. The police have been understanding, but any project approved by Garfield has been put on pause."

Gone was her usual prideful demeanor, replaced by a sense of relief.

"But stay on your toes. Talbot's still out there, and he's slippery."

"How did he even get wind of this? Garfield himself was in the dark."

"My mom used to say he had an animal's instinct for danger."

Lisa's tone was flat, her gaze fixed on Clyde in the ICU.

My voice came out raspy and strained as I managed to say, "Thank you."

"For what? It was a mutual need."

"The Crawford name's taken a hit. We're losing contracts and halting projects, not to mention the damages..."

Lisa's gaze met mine, her smile tinged with bitterness.

"Talbot used dirty tricks to take your family's company, Melanie. I can't give it back to you."

"I'll do my best to keep it from bankruptcy. Starting over will be easier with the foundation we still have."

I nodded, understanding her initial motives.

After all, what use was the company to me now? My parents were gone.

I spent nearly all my time in the hospital, waiting for him to wake.

I had to believe in karma; I'd survived two surgeries, and I was sure Clyde would be okay too.

Then, as I was about to grab a bite to eat, my phone buzzed. A stranger had sent me a friend request on social media, with the note "Geneva."

I quickly accepted, and they sent me a video.

It was Geneva, bound and restrained.

Talbot's voice echoed in the background.

"Come find me, both you and Galen Brown, or I'll chop her up and send her back to you piece by piece!"

"Melanie, I've killed before. She won't be the first."

"I've got nothing left to lose. I want money. Come with Galen Brown. Call the cops, and you'll be collecting a body!"