64. 24 Hours

The shrill ring of his phone pierced the tense silence. River’s eyes flashed with a dark intensity as he saw the name on the screen: Alexander Torres. His jaw clenched, a muscle twitching beneath the surface as he answered the call, his voice low and firm, a barely restrained fury simmering just below the surface. “Torres.” The name was a growl in his throat. “Have you made your decision?” “Where is she?” Alexander’s voice crackled through the phone, tight with barely concealed desperation. “I want proof that Riley is unharmed before I agree to anything.” River’s lips twisted into a mirthless smile. Always making demands. Even now, the arrogant bastard thought he had the upper hand. “You’ll get your proof,” River said, his words measured and cold. “But I’m warning you, Torres. Time is running out. For you and for her.” There was a pause on the other end of the line. River could practically hear the gears turning in Alexander’s head, calculating his next move. “I’ll be waiting,” Alexand