Married a Secret Billionaire novel Chapter 1281

"Even if we wanted to pay the ransom, you must give us time." Cordelia remained calm. "My mom is old, Mr. Harper. She can't bear this. If something happens to her, you will end up behind bars. You won't gain anything from it, either. This is serious. Think it through."

Albert looked around, and his grip on Janine's neck initially loosened, but then he tightened it even more. "Trying to trick me? Ha! You're too naive, Mrs. Hamerton!"

"Mr. Harper!"

At that moment, Lina stood up and held Cordelia's arm, urging her to step back.

Cordelia felt her heart squeeze with concern upon hearing Lina's soft voice.

"Mr. Harper, if you don't believe what Mrs. Hamerton said, why don't we make a trade? All you need is a hostage. It doesn't matter who it is. Take me instead in exchange for Grandma Janine!"

"Pammy!" Cordelia was shocked and pulled Lina back, getting Zuko to take her away.

Meanwhile, Lina released Cordelia's arm and glanced at Zuko, shaking her head.

Zuko pursed his lips, his deep eyes filled with concern.

However, he noticed the girl in the baseball cap walking quietly among the crowd not far away. She held the gun that Krystal had given Lina.

Lina turned to look at Albert. "Mr. Harper, I know your daughter likes Zuko. It was me who interfered with their relationship.

"Also, I was responsible for what happened at the orphanage. I persuaded the kids to create a commotion with the officers, leading to an investigation of the charity fund."

She spoke slowly, trying to distract Albert and create time and an opportunity for Lena.

Albert turned his body to follow her movements.

"I did all that, Mr. Harper. You should hate me! So, please release Grandma Janine. I'm willing to be your hostage!" Lina said with a determined tone. "If the Hamerton Group can't gather 3,000,000,000 pounds in time, the Thompsons won't give up as long as you have me!