Kaija was stunned upon recognizing his voice, but her mind quickly snapped back to the crucial conversation that might decide her fate. "I'm okay," she replied, trying to keep her voice calm, "I'm still in one piece."
"They're not hurting you?" he asked, his tone was tight with worry.
"No, I'm just… kept in a room." Her eyes flicked toward the old man, who was still standing there, watching and listening to every word. Her voice lowered. "Charles, what is this about?"
"I can't explain everything right now," he said, softer now. "But I'll get you out of there. Soon. Just don't do anything reckless."
"I won't," she said, though my chest felt heavier rather than relieved. "Are you okay? Did I cause you any trouble?"
"Time's up," the old man interrupted, taking the phone from her hand before she could say more. "Thank you for your cooperation, Miss Sepala." He turned to leave.
"Wait!" she called after him. "Who are you? Who do you work for?"
