The tension in the room grew, every second stretching into an eternity as the situation teetered on the brink of disaster. Theodore's mind raced, searching for a way to save Bella without escalating the danger. Every muscle in his body was coiled, ready to spring into action the moment an opportunity presented itself.
Meanwhile, Zack's eyes flickered to Theodore inching closer to Ivy and Bella. A surge of hope coursed through him. All he needed to do was keep Ivy occupied in conversation and buy Theodore enough time.
"Fifty million!" Zack exclaimed, feigning shock to keep Ivy focused on him. "It's impossible to arrange that kind of money in just half an hour. I need more time."
"But I don't have time!" Ivy snapped. "The cops are after me. They'll find me soon, and I need to get out of here now."
