That accomplice was most likely an enemy of hers as well.

By the time Madeline could guess who that woman might be, Tanner had hung up and returned.

He took a rope to tie Madeline’s legs together while he continued to spout vile things from his mouth. “Just wait obediently for me to come back, Madeline. Then, I’ll show you how good I am!”

Tanner then blindfolded Madeline’s eyes with a scrap piece of cloth before leaving the factory happily and locking the door behind him.

Madeline tried to struggle, but it was to no avail.

…

Time ticked soundlessly away and it was already nine o’clock.

In the town office, Jermey waited quietly.

Watching young couples walking in happily hand-in-hand and walking out with sweet smiles on their faces, Jeremy could not help but think of the scene when he and Madeline had gotten registered.

She was just like these girls, eyes full of hope as she admired him carefully.

Thinking of her adoration-filled eyes, Jeremy’s heart ached.

It was hi