Riley hurried back to the room where the children were bound, each one hanging limply from the rafters like macabre trophies. His heart raced as he worked quickly, using a knife to cut the ropes binding them. They dropped to the ground with soft thuds, eyes wide with confusion and fear.
"Stay quiet," he whispered urgently, "I'm here to help you."
Once the last child was free, he glanced around, adrenaline coursing through him... he searched the house until he found the safe, he broke it and took several gold bars and pound notes, before moving.
Riley glanced back at the children, their eyes wide with fear and uncertainty. "Go!" he urged, his voice low but firm. "Run to your homes, don't look back." As they hesitated, he gestured toward the exit, his heart racing with urgency... the cops might be there soon.
