The live-streamed murder incident sent shockwaves through the city.
Ethan Sullivan received the news and immediately rushed to the scene with Ian.
He looked up at the high-rise building, his brow furrowed. "What's the situation inside?"
Ian Watson stepped forward to report. "The police have secured the perimeter, but Leo Carter is highly unstable. Snipers are in position, but they can't act recklessly due to the hostages."
Liam Winston arrived in a panic, his face pale as he grabbed an officer. "Spare no expense—just ensure the hostages' safety!"
The lead officer replied grimly, "This isn't about money. The kidnapper hasn't demanded a ransom yet. Please remain calm—negotiators are on their way."
A-City hadn't seen such a heinous crime in years.
What made it worse was that the perpetrator was live-streaming the entire ordeal, drawing massive public attention.
"Is this guy insane? He's actually broadcasting a murder?"
"I heard Chloe Evans hired him to frame Sophia Sullivan, but he suddenly lost it."
"Rumors say it involves the Sullivans and the Winstons—check the stream!"
The crowd was pushed back to a safe distance by the police, but whispers spread like wildfire. The live feed had become the city's focal point.
Authorities set up barricades, clearing bystanders to avoid provoking the kidnapper.
When negotiators arrived, Leo only grew more volatile.
"Enough with the bullshit! Get Ethan Sullivan and Liam Winston up here now, or I'll throw these women into the boiling oil!"
He ignored all attempts at reasoning, waving a knife near the window.
At the end of the ropes, Sophia Sullivan and Chloe Evans dangled precariously. Below them, a vat of oil bubbled violently. One slip of the blade, and they would plunge to their deaths.
The horrifying sight left everyone breathless.
When negotiators suggested a hostage exchange, Ethan cut in. "Keep him calm. I'll go in."
Liam followed suit. "I'm coming too!"
It was their only option.
Following instructions, both men entered the abandoned building unarmed.
Ethan's gaze immediately sought Sophia. Relieved to see no visible injuries, he exhaled silently.
Chloe burst into hysterical sobs. "Liam! Save me!"
Unlike Sophia's composure, Chloe was on the verge of collapse. The terror was unlike anything she'd ever experienced, her voice trembling. "He's a madman! I'm so scared—"
She struggled instinctively but froze when she glimpsed the boiling oil below.
Regret flooded her—she never should have crossed Leo. Yet when she glanced at Sophia, hatred burned brighter. If Sophia hadn't provoked him, none of this would be happening.
"Stay quiet," Sophia ordered sharply.
She assessed the situation swiftly. Leo was mentally unhinged—any provocation could trigger disaster.
Since the stream had gone viral, snipers were likely in position. A glint from the rooftop opposite caught her eye, easing her tension slightly.
Their priority now was buying time for the snipers.
When Leo turned away, she locked eyes with Ethan and mouthed silently: Stall him.
Ethan understood instantly. "We're here now. If you wanted to kill them immediately, you wouldn't have waited. State your demands."
But Liam blurted out, "Name your price! Just let them go, and I'll guarantee your safe exit!"
Ethan frowned. Offering money now would only enrage Leo further.
Sure enough, Leo's head snapped up, his voice twisted with fury. "Money? Is that all you rich bastards know—throwing cash at problems?"