Chapter 168: The air crackled with tension; Kellan's hostility was palpable. His jaw clenched as he muttered, "I'm going to kill every last one of them." But protecting Allison superseded revenge. He resolved to distract the men, drawing their attention from her.

"I'll distract them—" Allison, ever perceptive, firmly shook her head. "No need," she said, her voice calm but resolute. "That's too risky, and you might get hurt. Besides, I have my own plan. It's not as hopeless as it seems." Her eyes locked on his with sharp determination. "You just need to stall Damon."

She worked swiftly and precisely, using a shard of glass to saw through the rope binding her wrists. Moments later, the rope was nearly severed. Silently, she passed the shard to Kellan. "Here," she whispered. "Take it. The doors are locked now, but if anyone returns, they'll likely be careless. That's our window. Be ready."

Just then, a turning lock confirmed her suspicion. The door creaked open, revealing Rugal, a greasy smirk plastered on his face. "I've had my eye on you, sweetheart. Play nice, and I'll make sure you have a good time." His eyes raked over her, his hand reaching for her chest.

Allison didn't flinch. Tilting her head, a radiant smile played on her lips, enhancing her beauty. "Not here," she murmured. "I don't like an audience. But outside… with the car lights on us, and me all helpless… that sounds exciting, don't you think?"

Rugal froze, captivated by her sweet voice. For a moment, he was mesmerized. Her seductive smile and alluring voice were potent. But he faltered, unsure. Allison batted her lashes, her voice softening, innocent yet intoxicating. "Come on, there's no 'but.' My hands are tied, so I can't do anything. And your men are guarding the place. Where could I even run? Trust me, I just want to make this easier for both of us."

Rugal grunted, her words sinking in. "Run? You? In those heels? Against me? What a joke!" His laugh was coarse, confident. Without hesitation, he sliced the rope around her feet. "Alright, sweetheart. You asked for it. Let's make sure you enjoy this."

Damon, observing from the sidelines, narrowed his eyes. Something felt wrong. "Aren't you supposed to handle that here?" he called out, watching Rugal drag Allison outside. "Careful with that one—" Kellan's violent coughing interrupted, drawing Damon's attention.

"If it's money you want," Kellan rasped, "have your men contact my assistant for the ransom. Gathering that kind of cash takes time. Once your boss shows up, you won't get a piece of it."

Damon's eyes flickered with greed. "Heh. You better be worth all this trouble." Women held little interest; his desires lay elsewhere—in money. With a final glance at the departing Rugal and Allison, Damon returned to the cabin, intent on extracting information from Kellan.