The Kiss that Sparked it All novel Chapter 2254

Thalia's heart hammered in her chest as Kael closed in on her, each of his steps crunching the withered leaves beneath his boots with a crisp snap. She clasped a hand over her mouth, praying that her shallow breaths wouldn't betray her hiding spot.

"Pick up the pace!" Balfour, a tall man with a long stride, moved swiftly up the mountain path, leaving Margot struggling to keep up.

Gasping for air, she dared not ask Balfour to wait for her; after all, he was on a mission to save her dear friend.

Unconcerned whether Margot could follow, Balfour pressed on.

Margot stamped her foot in frustration and continued her uphill battle. Upon reaching a peak, Balfour suddenly halted and gestured for Margot to stop.

"What's wrong?" Margot whispered anxiously.

Balfour had heard something—a faint rustle in the distance.

Holding her breath, Margot wondered, could it be Thalia?

"To the left, hurry!" Balfour barked, darting towards the sound.

He had caught the sound of a woman struggling. If he wasn't mistaken, it had to be that crew member and the culprit!

Thalia had been hiding on the mountain for hours, exhausted. Her worst fear materialized as Kael discovered her.

Kael, realizing escape was impossible, bellowed, "If you want this woman to live, stay right there and don't move!"

Balfour furrowed his brows, holding back the desperate Margot. Then his gaze turned to the sweating man who had almost killed Ivy—it was him!

"What do you want?" Balfour demanded, his voice steady.

Kael feigned composure as he faced Balfour. How could he not recognize the man before him? But what was Mr. Howard doing here?

"So, Mr. Howard, you're saying I can have whatever I want?" Kael mused, realizing that since Balfour had conveyed his intention to negotiate, it implied that he didn't plan to corner him into a dead end.