The Princess and the Pauper (Arabella) novel Chapter 1819

"What did you just say?" Louisa could hardly believe her ears. Had he actually caught Erik? The real Erik, not an impostor?

"Bring him in!" Kenneth feared any delay might give Erik a chance to slip away.

"Could this be a trap?" Belinda, ever cautious, chimed in. "Bella said Erik is a mid-level boss in a rival outfit. How could Martin have nabbed him so easily? Remember, our guys have been on it for days and nights with no luck. What if Erik and Martin are in cahoots, putting on a show for us?"

Maybe their goal was to rescue Serena?

"Do you think he's got a plan B, maybe an ambush outside, or perhaps someone will attempt to break Erik out tonight?" Darren speculated.

"Possibly."

The group mulled over their conversation, sensing there was some truth to their suspicions.

After all, with Martin's capabilities, it seemed unlikely he would beat them to Erik.

"Let's cross that bridge when we come to it. For now, let's hear what he has to say," Louisa decided, taking her seat of authority next to Kenneth, as they watched the figure walk through the door.

Martin led the way, urgency in his step, followed by two of his henchmen.

The thugs dragged in a bound and unconscious Erik, presenting him before the group.

"How on earth did you pull this off?" Louisa was incredulous.

Erik lay before them, tied up tight. Kenneth leaned in to check his pulse. He was indeed alive!

Martin didn't hide anything and spilled the beans.

"Last night, after I left the Collins residence, I called in a number of top-notch doctors to rush to my place. By dawn, I had them shake their heads and leave one by one. I instructed them to spread the word that Serena was critically injured, on death's door, and wanted to see her father one last time. It wasn't long before an unknown number got in touch with me."

Perhaps fearing they might refuse, he added, "Even if Serena could be saved, I swear on my life that I won't help her harm the Collins family in any way. I'll steer her towards the right path. if she has any life left in her."

He paused, closing his eyes for a deep breath to stave off the tears.

"Please... hand her over to me." Martin bowed deeply, his voice breaking, tears finally falling to the floor.

No one had expected him to be so devoted to Serena.

The clock hands had completed half their journey; Serena had less than half an hour left.

"A dying person is of no use to us. Since you wish to care for her remains, we'll bring Serena here," Louisa commanded, and the order was given to bring Serena forth.

Martin hadn't expected Louisa's unexpected mercy. His eyes reddened with gratitude as he looked at her, his gaze filled with thanks.