Chapter 1253
Chapter 1253:
Without sparing Michelle another thought, Rupert’s only priority was to get out. He flexed his freed wrists and lunged for the exit.
“Rupert!” Michelle’s bright voice rang out from behind him.
She emerged from the room, expecting to hear him finally agree to return to France with her, so she wouldn’t need to keep him restrained anymore. Instead, she was met with two unconscious bodyguards and the frayed remnants of rope on the floor.
Her expression darkened instantly. A shrill scream tore from her throat. “Useless! Get the fuck up p>
The remaining bodyguards rushed to her at once. Michelle’s delicate features twisted with rage as she hurried out, catching a glimpse of Rupert’s figure disappearing into the distance.
Her eyes narrowed, burning with fury, as she pointed after him. “Go! Get him for me! Go p>
It had taken time to find this remote cabin, and she was certain Rupert couldn’t have gotten far.
With cold determination, she watched her bodyguards vanish into the darkness. Then she climbed into a waiting car and slammed her foot down on the accelerator.
“Rupert, you cannot escape me p>
Rupert was nearly out of breath—not from running, but from the lingering effects of the drug. It had taken everything he had to take down the bodyguards earlier. His legs felt heavier with every step, and the frantic pounding of footsteps behind him drew closer.
Gritting his teeth, Rupert forced himself to sprint, but he was no match for Michelle’s car tracking him. Soon, blinding headlights cut through the darkness. A white sedan surged forward, then screeched to a stop, blocking his path.
With nowhere else to go, Rupert halted and backed up a step, brows drawn tight, posture guarded.
Michelle’s bodyguards were closing in. He was cornered, with no clear way out.
Michelle climbed out in a hurry and walked toward him, arms crossed, a sardonic smile curving her lips. “Rupert,” she said coldly. “You’d better understand that going to France with me is your best option. I don’t want to force you, but don’t test my patience. Otherwise, I can’t promise how you’ll be taken back with me p>
“Michelle.” Rupert kept his tone steady. Acting aggressive wouldn’t help. He needed time—time for Annabel, who hadn’t heard from him for hours, to come looking. “Don’t be so stubborn. We’re not a good match. Why don’t you let me go? I swear I won’t tell Calvert about any of this. Wouldn’t it be better if we pretended we never met from now on p>
“No.” Michelle’s eyes hardened. She was too irrational to reason with. “You don’t actually think Annabel will find this place, do you? Stop daydreaming and p>
“Rupert p>
Rupert’s heart jolted at the voice he’d been waiting for. He lifted his head and saw Annabel rushing toward them. Her hair was slightly disheveled, proof of how fast she’d come. Despite the fear in her eyes, she held herself together as she looked between Rupert and Michelle.
Hearing Annabel, Michelle’s face tightened. She tilted her head, stunned. After a brief pause, she asked, suspicion and disbelief lacing her voice, “Annabel… how did you get here p>