Startled, Lise exchanged puzzled looks with Sharon. They both wondered, who could possibly be visiting them at such a time?

Leaning on each other for support, Lise and Sharon followed the prison guard’s lead, stepping into the light of freedom after a harrowing close call.

Their progress across the floor was painfully slow, consuming a full ten minutes for what should have been a short walk. However, the guard, showing unexpected patience, allowed them to move at their own cautious pace.

As they entered the visitation room, Lise stopped dead, her eyes widening at the unexpected scene. Sharon, too, was visibly shaken. Whispering almost inaudibly, Lise’s voice shook as she said, “Neil.” Tears overcame her composure then, as she sobbed, “I was sure you’d given up on me.”

Sharon, smiling through the tension, scolded her gently, “Ridiculous! Neil’s devotion is too deep; he wouldn’t just leave you.” Facing Neil, she questioned with a grin, “Right, Mr. Wheeler?”

But Neil’s attention was solely on Lise, his tone steady and reassuring.

“Get ready, we’re leaving.”

Joy surged in Lise’s heart. She had assumed Neil was just another visitor, but he was here to free her. Overcome with emotion, she threw herself into his arms, saying, “I just knew you wouldn’t forsake me. It’s been unbearable without you.”

Moments before, she had been resigned to a bleak fate within these walls. Despair had gripped her heart. But Neil’s arrival heralded her escape from this nightmare. Her spirits soared!

However, Neil’s expression hardened as urgency crept into his voice.

“Step away. You need to sign some documents. Don’t be late, or I’m leaving without you.”

Lise tensed up suddenly. She couldn’t shake the unease that Neil’s demeanor stirred within her. Yet, time was not a luxury she could afford. Her priority was clear—escape the confines of this dreadful place.

Letting go of Neil, she affirmed with a series of nods.

“Alright, I’m off to sign the papers.”

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With a skillful turn of his wheelchair, Neil began to exit.

Joy momentarily erased the pain on Sharon’s face as she beamed at Lise.

“Come, my dear, let’s handle the paperwork and leave this dreadful place behind.”

But their progress was halted almost immediately as the guard stepped in front of Sharon, her voice devoid of warmth.

“You’re not going anywhere. Only your daughter will be released.”

Sharon’s stride broke, her face a mask of shock.

“Excuse me? What did you just say?”

If Neil was here for her daughter, he wouldn’t abandon her! Leaving her behind was unthinkable!

Yet, the guard remained stoic, her posture signaling no room for negotiation.

In that moment, the harsh reality hit Sharon that Neil was here solely for Lise. Dread filled her as she grasped Lise’s hand tighter, her voice laced with urgency.

“Lise, you won’t leave me behind, will you?”

Lise’s expression was torn. She compressed her lips, then whispered reassuringly, “As soon as I’m free, I’ll arrange help for you. I promise, I’ll get you out.”

Now, it was clear. Neil was rescuing only her. It was clear he had no plans to rescue Sharon. Who, then, could Lise find to help her mother? Sharon’s heart ached with sadness, yet she managed a relieved smile.

“Once you’re out, take care of yourself. And remember, find someone who can get me out too!”

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