The Day I Walked Away My Empire Began novel Chapter 128

The clearing was dotted with a few makeshift tents, and a handful of guys stood around outside, looking restless.

“What took you so long? We’re starving over here.”

“Oh please, you try hauling all that water and see how fast you walk.”

“Whatever, just hand over the food already.”

The guys crowded in, tearing into the packets of instant noodles and snacks.

“Did you bring beer?”

“Yeah right. You think this is a barbecue? Be grateful we even have bottled water.”

A short, chubby man dug through the bags. “That brat wouldn’t stop whining about wanting roast goose leg. Did you get it?”

“We got it, alright.”

“He’s so spoiled. Seriously, making us buy roast goose leg just for him.”

“He’s our ticket out of here. Let him eat what he wants. Once his dad wires over those two billion, we’re set for life.”

The chubby man grinned, pulled out a box with the goose leg and a bottle of water, and ducked into one of the tents.

“Mr. Heath, your roast goose is here. Come eat.”

Inside the tent, Cody hugged a teddy bear, looking small and scared. “Didn’t you say we were going to find Aunt Shannon? When are we going to find her?”

The man handed him the boxed food. “Right after you eat up, okay?”

Cody pouted, his face scrunched up with frustration. “You’re lying. You’re all lying! I want to go home. Take me home right now!”

Tears streaming down his face, Cody made a break for the tent entrance.

The chubby man lunged and snatched him up. “Where do you think you’re going, huh?”

“Let me go! Let me go!” Cody sobbed, kicking and struggling.

Hidden behind the trees, Lucie and Elio watched, stunned.

“That’s Cody. Why is he here?” Lucie whispered, barely breathing.

“Shh, keep it down. Those guys are definitely kidnappers,” Elio whispered back.

A chill ran down Lucie’s spine, icy and sharp. Steven had called her to say Cody was missing.

She’d thought he was just making it up.