Eric's POV
Eric sat in the dimly lit office, his mind racing. It had been hours since Liezel had gone on the raid, and the silence was agonizing. He couldn't shake the feeling of dread that gnawed at him. Every second that passed without news felt like an eternity.
Laren, noticing Eric's distress, approached him gently.
Laren: "Eric, you need to calm down. Panicking won't help anyone, especially Liezel."
Eric: "I know, but I can't help it. She's out there, facing who knows what. I just... I can't stand not knowing if she's okay."
Laren placed a reassuring hand on Eric's shoulder.
Laren: "She's strong, Eric. She's been through worse and come out on top. You have to trust in her and the team."
Another hour dragged by before the silence was broken. A fleet of CBI officers and agents swarmed the company, their presence causing a stir among the employees. Eric's heart sank as he realized the severity of the situation.
One of the officers approached Martina's secretary, a young woman named Patricia, who looked visibly shaken.
CBI Officer: "We need to know everything about Martina's whereabouts before the abduction. It's crucial for the investigation."
Patricia, trembling, shook her head.
Patricia: "I... I can't. Please, you don't understand."
Eric, observing her distress, stepped forward.
Eric: "Patricia, please. We need your help to find Martina. Anything you know could be vital."
Tears streamed down Patricia's face as she looked around, her fear evident.
Patricia: "I didn't give Martina's schedule to Rafaela. She threatened my family. She said she'd kill them if I told anyone about Martina's plans."
The room fell silent as the gravity of her words sank in. Eric felt a mix of anger and helplessness.
Eric: "Patricia, we can protect you and your family. But we need to know where Martina was supposed to be. Please."
Patricia hesitated, her eyes darting around the room. Finally, she took a deep breath and spoke.
Patricia: "Martina was supposed to meet Sebastian in Tuba before the abduction, but she decided to go another day instead. Rafaela had been monitoring her every move, constantly asking me if there were any plans or trips Martina had."
Eric felt a knot tighten in his stomach. This information was crucial.
Eric: "Thank you, Patricia. We'll make sure your family is safe."
As the CBI officers quickly relayed the information, Eric's mind raced with possibilities. Could this be the break they needed to find Martina and end Rafaela's reign of terror?
Eric: "Laren, let's get ready. We might be needed soon."
Laren nodded, their resolve mirrored in Eric's eyes. They both knew the danger that lay ahead, but they were willing to face it head-on. For Liezel, for Martina, and for the truth.
